Sanjaya's luck runs out on 'Idol'

HOLLYWOOD, April 19 (UPI) -- "American Idol" contestant Sanjaya Malakar, the sweetheart of votefortheworst.com and Howard Stern, has been voted out of the Hollywood singing competition.

Malakar, who took a turn at Bonnie Raitt's hit "Something to Talk About, on County/Western night, was eliminated from "Idol" on Wednesday, E! News reported. Judge Simon Cowell called Malakar's performance "utterly horrendous."

Malakar, 17, won over fans during the course of the competition with his quick grin and weekly changing hairstyles.

He also attracted supporters who were dedicated to seeing him win -- or at least go deep in the competition -- to mock what "American Idol" is supposed to represent.

Next week's competition will be a special "Idol Gives Back." For each vote tallied after Tuesday's show, sponsors will donate to the Charity Projects Entertainment Fund, which assists children and youth in Africa and America.

Wednesday's show will include appearances by Sacha Baron Cohen, Michael Buble, "Idol" alum Kelly Clarkson, Celine Dion, Il Divo, Josh Groban, Annie Lennox, Pink and Gwen Stefani.