AI is recording those two episodes a week in advance, which is all the more time for the conspiracy theories to fly. Some of the better ones already taking wing are:

1. Autotune!

2. Selected use of autotune. (Call it electronic pimping.)

3. It's the only way to make sure the show finishes within its time slot. (Oh, sure -- now they care.)

4. All storylines will be extra-predetermined.

5. Group musical number expected to be extra-embarrassing.

6. And this way, Nigel can get the votes in advance too!

VFTW is already asking people to apply for audience seats and give them song & performance spoilers. They'll likely get more than a few. But what the audience sees and what ultimately airs might be two completely different shows.

We've been in WWE territory for a while now. About all that's left is for each singer to cut their own promos. "Columbia Girl is going down!"

Oh, and we may need a top rope.

But no nooses. The producers have exclusive noose-signing rights.

• RE: Semifinal round will not air live.,emydi, 01:06 PM, 02-17-11
• Final round first week will not air live.,Snidget, 02:54 PM, 03-06-11
  • RE: Final round first week will not air live.,Estee, 03:05 PM, 03-06-11

7. Superimposing Juliana Ramos in her wheelchair next to Chris while he sings

what's a little self-loathing among friends?

http://mjsbigblog.com/american-idol-10-top-13-will-be-taped-on-tuesday.htm

1. They realized how much autotuning the chosen ones need.

2. They realized how much autotuning the judges panel needs.

3. Nigel gets a kick back from someone for actually ending the show on time and is going to make sure he's down to the second on performance shows no matter what.

4. HD's in a relationship with someone on the staff and got his fondest wish as a I'm-serious-about-this present.

Beyond that, #1. Nothing can save Steven and Nigel's love of domination probably means knocking out your local news is a personal pleasure.