![Ellen DeGeneres boosted "American Idol," as singer Andrew Garcia becomes an early audience fave.](http://cdn2-b.examiner.com/sites/default/files/styles/large/hash/e9/79/e979bcce5c53110b349ebc3fde361547.jpg "Ellen DeGeneres boosted "American Idol," as singer Andrew Garcia becomes an early audience fave.")
Much needed ado about 'American Idol,' indeed. The 2010 edition finally hit a real high note with the ratings to match. And the highly touted arrival of Ellen DeGeneres was just the beginning. For those just joining the 'Idol' this season, introducing contestant Andrew Garcia, whose acoustic rendition of the Paula Abdul hit 'Straight Up' has become a viral video sensation.
Now that "American Idol" has settled into its Hollywood home, the real competition has finally begun. And, its not the nearly 200 would-be pop sensations that are being judged this week. Daytime talk show superstar Ellen DeGeneres also made her debut as a judge on the show in the wake of an intense media campaign announcing her arrival.
So far, reaction has been positive on DeGeneres' contribution to the "Idol," which is now in its ninth season. Ratings for the first Hollywood episode were predictably strong, with the show posting its best numbers since its January debut. (DeGeneres also renewed her top-rated show on NBC through 2014 in a just announced mega-bucks deal.)
Meanwhile, a viral video hit has emerged from this year's group of contestants. Andrew Garcia stirred up plenty of interest by choosing a song from deposed "Idol" judge Paula Abdul, whom DeGeneres replaced. Garcia, who was discovered during the Los Angeles auditions, offered a plaintive and acoustic version of Abdul's dance hit "Straight Up" that has become a viral video hit. Did his gamble pay off?
He made it to the next round.
"American Idol" airs on Fox on Tuesday evenings @ 8/7c and Wednesday @ 9/8c.
Keep reading the Personalities on Examiner.com for the latest celebrity and industry news.
Comments
There is no video here to watch! :(
ok, it's here now. My internet was slow. :)
This is the first time i actually had any interest in this show. Unfortunately this happens to be on the same day as LOST. but i got my non lost friends on stand by to give me the number when to call.
Got something to say?
Examiner.com is looking for writers, photographers, and videographers to join the fastest growing group of local insiders. If you are interested in growing your online rep apply to be an Examiner today!