David Cook's win is a shock if you consider the final performance show, but it was always clear here on About.com that fans were rooting for David C. In a recent poll, the majority of readers predicted that Cook would be the most successful recording artist. Meanwhile, the majority of readers said David Cook was their favorite finalist. Simon Cowell even apologized for counting David Cook out of the race when he judged Tuesday night's performance show. “ I went back home to watch it,” Simon said. "It wasn't quite as clear cut as we called it. David, I will take this opportunity to apologize because I was verging on being disrespectful with you and I don't think you deserved that...For the first time ever, I don't care who wins. I think both of you were terrific.”
After his victory was announced, David said, “I’m absolutely at a loss for words right now. This is amazing. Thank you!”
But before Ryan could get to the announcement everybody had been waiting for, producers had two hours to kill. Here's what happened during the finale.
Hometown Coverage
Former American Idol finalist Mikalah Gordon was with thousands of David Cook fans -- including David's former music teacher -- in Kansas City, Missouri. And former finalist Matt Rogers was on the scene with David Archuleta fans -- including David's grandparents -- in Salt Lake City, Utah! (Meanwhile, I was reporting from my couch with my remote control and some nachos.)The Performances
- The Top 12 performed "Get Ready." [See photo]
- David Archuleta and David Cook sang "Hero."
- Syesha Mercado performed "Waiting for You" with special guest Seal. [See photo]
- Jason Castro sang "Hallelujah"
- The top six ladies performed songs by Donna Summer with Donna Summer herself. [See photo]
- Finalists Carly Smithson and Michael Johns sang "The Letter"
- The top six guys performed a medley of Bryan Adams song with Bryan Adams himself. [See photo]
- David Cook performed "Sharp Dressed Man" with ZZ Top. [See photo]
- Brooke White performed "Teach The Children" with Graham Nash . [See photo]
- The Jonas Brothers sang "S.O.S" [See photo]
- David Archuleta and OneRepublic performed "Apologize"
- American Idol winner Jordan Sparks performed her song "One Step at A Time"
- American Idol winner Carrie Underwood sang "Last Name"
- The Top 12 performed a medley of George Michael songs with a special performance by George Michael.
Just A Little Gift
David Archuleta and David Cook were presented with keys to two Ford Escape Hybrids. Being forced to film those corny Ford commercials was worth it in the end, after all!Time For A Laugh
- There was a lame, pre-taped segment in which David Archuleta and David Cook went to see The Love Guru, a character from an upcoming comedy movie. The Davids' time would have been better spent rehearsing.
- Jimmy Kimmel came out to do a roast-style bit in which he made fun of Paula's famous Jason judging screw-up and showed Simon Cowell's insults set to music.
- There was a segment that looked back at some of the best of the worst contestants during the audition rounds. After the segment, memorable auditioner Reynaldo Lapuz (the guy who wore a feather hat and white suit with a cape) came out to sing his "Brother" song.
- There was a sketch that showed a fake blast-from-the-past Gladys Knight and the Pips audition, with Ben Stiller, Jack Black, and Robert Downey Jr. auditioning.
At the end of the night, we had seen better American Idol finales. But all that really matters is that a winner was crowned. Congratulations, David Cook!
