Yet, coming into tonight’s American Idol 2012 Top 3 elimination, most news analysts and fans thought Phillip Phillips and Hollie Cavanagh were most likely to end in the bottom two. Unlike other seasons, American Idol 2012 has eventually eliminated each and every singer who has landed at least twice in the bottom. Hollie Cavanagh has visited that spot numerous times. And yet, Hollie has shocked news, surviving each time. Did she do the same tonight?

Moreover, before tonight’s telecast, most news analysts still predicted the finals will feature Jessica Sanchez vs. Joshua Ledet. Yet, after Jessica was eliminated and saved earlier in this season, many have feared that Jessica could ultimately be eliminated even before the finals.

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This week, all the judges told news that singers were improving. But recently, Phillip Phillips had struggled.

Last month his delivery of U Got It Bad prompted Randy Jackson to remark that “We have a true artist on that stage.” Jennifer said that Phillip showed a range, calling him a “great singer who can sing any song.” Steve said the melody section was great.

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A week before that, many fans once thought that Phillip Phillips could reach the final three; yet some were worried that he could instead head to the bottom three. Some fans contended that Phillips’ performances are becoming predictable.

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Phillips’ delivery of Give a Little More prompted Randy Jackson to state “What was I most excited was when you started.” Jennifer Lopez was torn, telling news “It was underwhelming.” But Steven Tyler liked it.

Sent to the bottom two tonight were Phillips and Cavanagh. And in the end, eliminated from American Idol tonight was Hollie Cavanagh.