'American Idol' down to two finalists

Associated Press

LOS ANGELES — And then there were two in Fox's "American Idol" talent search show.

Viewers voted Nikki McKibbin out of the competition, it was announced on last night's show. That leaves Justin Guarini, 23, of Doylestown, Pa., and Kelly Clarkson, 20, of Burleson, Texas, to compete for the idol title.

Advertiser readers booted Guarini off the show in an informal poll Tuesday. Our readers wanted Clarkson and McKibbin to meet in the final showdown on the Fox show next week. Clarkson got 173 votes, McKibbin 36 votes and Guarini 21 votes.

McKibbin, who tearfully hugged her fellow contestants, was gracious in defeat as family members, including her visibly disappointed mother, looked on from the Kodak Theatre audience.

"What an incredible journey this has been. ... Just to know that so many people support me and enjoy what I do means more than anything in the world," said the 23-year-old from Grand Prairie, Texas.

The judges, who critique the performers before viewers call in their votes, were equally gracious — even the acid-tongued Simon Cowell.

"Reality check: Out of 10,000 people, you are third. This is not a time for tears," he told McKibbin. "You've got a career ahead of you."

The winner, who will receive a record contract, will be chosen next week and announced on the series' finale airing Sept. 4.

The show has turned into a hit for Fox, especially among the young adult viewers favored by advertisers. The network has announced there will be a second season for "American Idol."

Advertiser staff contributed to this report.