Re: AI2 Finale: Ruben Studdard Victorious!

Date: 22 May 2003 10:41:26 GMT
Newsgroups: alt.tv.survivor
Size: 1,156 bytes

It seemed that from the beginning of the Final 12, the competition was hurtling
towards a showdown between Ruben and Clay. Both guys were so good, it was
really hard to make a decision. I really thought Clay had won it with his
startling rendition of "Bridge Over Troubled Water."
Let's be fair, though - Ruben WAS the most consistent singer throughout the
series. Even when he was ill with flu, he still managed to turn in some
soulful, incredible performances. Clay's downfall may have been that
unfortunate lapse two weeks ago during "Vincent" - incidentally, one of my
favorite ballads. Even with a teleprompter, he still lost his way during the
song. Both men will do well, though - mark my words.
Apparently America felt the same way - with over 24 million votes cast, Ruben
won by (if my math is correct) only 56/100of a percentage point (130,000
votes). It couldn't have been any closer.
What would have made last night perfect? A duet between Ruben and Kelly
Clarkson - perhaps a medley of his gospel song into "A Moment Like This" - or
would that have been too cheesy?
Congratulations, Ruben - job well done. Over to you, Paula... :)