Perth singer Michael Johns, one of the favourites for American Idol, was turfed from the show this week.
Johns was one of the most popular acts on this year's series, so his departure came as a surprise.Judging by the response from the audience and the other contestants, John's elimination was unexpected.
The audience booed and the other contestants seemed shocked when it was announced Johns had been voted off.
The reason given for the departure was his poor choice of song in the prior week when he struggled to sing Aerosmith's 'Dream On'.
While the departure from the show may initially be a blow for Michael, it will most likely end up being the best thing that ever happened to him.
By the leaving the show now, he has grown his personal brand and has increased his value to the music labels. Like most Idol winners after the initial season, the template in most parts of the world has been pretty much a sharp curve back to obscurity within 12 months.
Johns was a strange choice for Idol. In 2001, he was a part of the band and signed with Madonna's Maverick Records. The debut album was recorded by never released.
Johns moved from Perth to Atlanta, Georgia with his family in 1998. He now lives in Los Angeles.
