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There will be no Jennifer Hudson in 2005.
Illinois’ only “American Idol” contestant, Jared Yates, was sent home to Danville on Wednesday when “Idol” voters cast off four hopefuls. And he had company: Melinda Lira, Sarah Mather and Judd Harris also were eliminated.
“Idol” had its most awkward moment by far when making its first cut. With a curt “Melinda, you’re out,” host Ryan Seacrest broke the news to Lira, who stood frozen and stared blankly for several seconds.
Finally, Seacrest asked, “Are you OK?” “I’m really shocked,” she whispered.
In other “Idol” news, original Idol Kelly Clarkson will launch her first solo tour, which hits the Rosemont Theatre on April 14. Tickets go on sale Saturday.
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Edited by RedEye staff (ritaredeye@tribune.com)
