Over 300 contestants advanced to Hollywood. One of them will be the next American Idol.

In an unusual pairing, Miley Cyrus and Billy Crysal shared the stage. You can guess who got the bigger cheer from the mostly teenage audience.

Paula Abdul enjoyed a March 14 visit to Goshen Elementary School in Goshen, CA. Touring the campus for more than two hours, Abdul met with students involved in an after-school program aimed at increasing literacy and physical activity. One of the days highlights: Abdul led a dance routine to her new song.

Here's a shot of Brad Pitt from 2008's Idol Gives Back special. He was just one of several celebrities to join the broadcast.

Brooke White, Ramiele Malubay and Kristy Lee Cook were downright depressed at being in the bottom three, following their Dolly Parton performances. Eventually, Ramiele was sent home on this night.

Colton Dixon rocks out in this photo from American Idol performance night. He's done very well for himself on season 11.

Chikezie Eze bid farewell during the week of the final nine of American Idol. Syesha Mercado doesn't look too sad to see him go, does she?

Miley Cyrus is totally a dawg of Randy Jackson. Then again, who isn't? The American Idol judge and Hannah Montana exchange fist bumps.

The hair on Amanda Overmyer may be a crime. But this really was a crime: the American Idol hopeful was arrested for drunk driving in 2006.

Simon Cowell hangs out with Ellen DeGeneres and her girlfriend Portia de Rossi at Elton John's 16th annual AIDS Foundation Oscar party. We wonder if the American Idol judge critiqued the event.

Are you excited for the new season of American Idol? The judging panel poses here with Ryan Seacrest.

On May 6, Claymates, look for a new album from Clay Aiken. Oh yes! Time to get excited!