Michael Slezak

Michael Slezak is a senior writer for EW.

'American Idol' recap: A tale of two Idols

American Idol recap: A Tale of Two Idols

20 Event Movies for Gays and Gals

''American Idol'': Sizing up the 24 semifinalists

'American Idol' recap: Skin show!

'American Idol' recap: Twenty-four on the floor!

American Idol recap: Getting off Scott-free

American Idol recap: Women on the Verge

Natalie Portman: See Her Grow Up On Screen

Ninth place, Season 5 The uni-monikered diva's now legendary ''I'm Every Woman,'' combined with her megawatt smile and effervescent personality, made it easy to pardon the occasional pitch problems that betrayed her on her semifinal covers of Faith Hill's ''Cry'' and Heart's ''Never.'' Her sorry performance of Shania Twain's ''Any Man of Mine'' during country week, however, proved unforgivable — especially in the deep, contentious fifth-season talent pool.

'American Idol': The 11 Most Shocking Flameouts