TVSquad

(S06E37) The theme for tonight's American Idol is appropriately enough -- The Fantastic Four. We're down to just four (soon to be three) finalists. And this past week the finalists were treated to a sneak peek at the upcoming movie, The Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer. Of course this means the viewers at home will be treated to an extended promo for the flick before the night is out.

In preparation for an appearance by Jessica Alba, Simon and Paula have apparently swapped seats. Paula says the reason for the switch is because Jessica is hot, and then she starts counting for no apparent reason.

(S06E36) Ryan tells us that we're down to three girls and one guy, and I suddenly realize that we're really getting close to the end of this year's American Idol competition.

I have to admit that right around Week 20, I thought this day would never come. Yet, after weeks of dragging this thing out, suddenly everything is happening quickly. I mean, heck, I missed one week of recapping and both Chris Richardson and Phil Stacey went home.

"The pressure is on," says Ryan. This is where it gets really exciting (if one of your favorites remains) or really boring (if your favorite has gone home). Either way, the waiting is almost over. In two weeks, we'll have a new American Idol.

But tonight starts pretty rough, with some uninspiring renditions across the board of Barry Gibb's greatest hits.

American Idol has an impressive guest list of artists for the rest of this season. Guests include Tony Bennett, Bon Jovi, Barry Gibb, Jennifer Lopez, Lulu, Martina McBride, Peter Noone, Diana Ross, and Gwen Stefani. Looking at that list, it's pretty obvious there will be themes including disco, rock, pop, '50s, country, and lounge.

First of all, I'd love to see Diana Ross be a guest judge. I think her zanyness could rival Paula's and maybe even make Paula look sober.

I think the biggest 'get' is Gwen Stefani, who is on top of her game right now. I guess she knows where her fans are. There's no doubt (har, har) that Gwen's young fans are the same people who watch Idol.

Unfortunately, it doesn't look as though any of these celebrities will actually perform. Idol's press release lists the celebs as "coaches" and "guests". So... they'll be helping performers choose and prepare songs and probably also be guest judges. Performers scheduled for this season are former Idol contestants Carrie Underwood and Kellie Pickler.