“Idol” top 24 set to start performing tonight!

I love American Idol and think Ellen DeGeneres is a wonderful addition to the show as the new judge. I thought I’d miss Paula Abdul more but to have someone so clear-eyed and articulate is so nice!

That said, I found last week’s long, drawn-out episodes announcing the top 24 to be torture. Really, spreading it out over two nights?

Too much!

That said, I am very much looking forward to seeing the women sing tonight followed by the guys on Wednesday night. I already have a crush on 27-year-old Casey James. (pictured above and left)

He’s from FT. Worth, TX and has been singing since before he could speak. He enjoys playing the guitar and mandolin, and has been a full-time musician for the past 10 years.

Obviously others find him hot.

When he was auditioning in Denver, Kara DioGuardi and guest judge Victoria Beckham asked him to remove his shirt in order to get a closer look at him.

I’ll be forever grateful to them for that!