'American Idol' Gets Own Live Pre-Show

Published: 3/13/06, 9:27 PM EDT
LOS ANGELES (AP) - Just like the Academy Awards, "American Idol" now merits its own pre-show. Beginning Tuesday, the TV Guide Channel will present an hourlong, live pre-show before each of this season's remaining "American Idol" telecasts.

"Idol Tonight" will feature appearances by ejected contestants and past "Idol" stars, plus interviews with vocal coaches, casting agents and industry insiders. Exclusive footage, including auditions, outtakes and post-performance confessions, will also be shown on the weekly program, a show publicist said Monday.

Hosted by former "Idol" finalist Kimberly Caldwell and one-time "Popstars" contestant Rosanna Tavarez, "Idol Tonight" will air at 7 p.m. and will capture the red carpet vibe outside "American Idol," said Ryan O'Hara, president of the TV Guide Channel.

"Idol Tonight" will be broadcast from CBS Television City, where Fox's "American Idol" is filmed.
credit BellSOuth