Fans of American Idol are reeling this morning after last night's elimination of Constantine Maroulis who many felt would ultimately win the competition. Maroulis, 29, received the lowest number of votes after his performance of Nickelback's 'How You Remind Me' was criticized by the judges.

His elimination stunned the live audience as well as the remaining contestants. Judge Paula Abdul reacted emotionally and was almost unable to speak as she tried to make sense of this turn of events. She was seen crying and consoling Maroulis' mother as the closing credits rolled.

Immediately following the elimination, the official Fox message board for the show was inundated with posts. Fans expressed their shock and dismay at this turn of events. Some questioned the validity of the voting and demanded a recount. Others wonder if a campaign on a website called 'Vote for the Worst' was the reason for their Idol's ouster. The website has been urging people to vote for Scott Savol, whom they perceive to be the current 'worst.' The site takes credit for keeping Idol dreams alive for semifinalist Janay Castine and the top 12's Mikalah Gordon, both of whom were questionable.

This has not been a good week for the Fox ratings blockbuster. ABC is promoting a Primetime Live special that will, according to their advertising, blow the lid off American Idol. The segment, called 'Fallen Idol' will air on Wednesday, May 4. While the content of this show is still not known, it may include allegations by former Idol Corey Clark that he and Abdul had a sexual relationship while he was on the show. Clark was disqualified from the show in 2003 after the Smoking Gun website published. Abdul has hired an attorney through whom she has denied Clark's allegations.

Maroulis' former band, Pray for the Soul of Betty, will release their first CD on May 10. Koch Records arranged the distribution for the CD which features Maroulis on vocals. Some fans wonder if promotion for this album, which features a picture of Maroulis on the cover, may have violated his Idol contract in some way. According to published reports, he signed away his rights to any profit from the CD as part of the deal.

Maroulis will remain under contract with 19 Entertainment for at least three months after the season finale, which will air on May 25. Following the conclusion of the show, the top ten will perform in a nationwide tour. After that, 19 Entertainment has the option of retaining Maroulis or any of the contestants who did not win the title.