LOS ANGELES, April 27 (UPI) -- The field of "American Idol" hopefuls has been whittled to five with the ouster of North Carolina's Kellie Pickler from the Fox TV talent competition.
The 19-year-old country singer did not appear surprised by the news delivered by host Ryan Seacrest on live TV Wednesday night. Seacrest said 47.5 million votes were received after Tuesday night's love songs theme, a record number for a non-finale.
"I've definitely learned a lot since I've been here," Pickler said. She then broke from the tradition of singing a final song to thank everyone from vocal coaches to musicians on the hit TV show's crew.
Still on the block are Paris Bennett, Katharine McPhee, Taylor Hicks, Chris Daughtry and Elliott Yamin. The winner will be named May 25.
