Idol Manipulates With Crying Fan

The tears were for real, but it was all planned by American Idol. Ashley Ferl, the "emotionally special" thirteen year old girl who balled during Tuesday night's show was a plant by the producers. Ferl wasn't even supposed to attend the actual taping, just the dress rehearsal. The producers saw her "cry so much at the rehearsal", they gave her an aisle seat right up front for the live taping. They knew she would have her tearful reaction, and it would make for better television.

Although they made it look like it was just for Sanjaya, this idol worshipper cried throughout the entire show. She claims the producers mentioned getting her tickets for the finale...no doubt up front and center.

I don't blame them for using Ferl. This season's been so lame, they have to do something to keep our interest.

Photo: msnbc.com