Why "Idol" Made a Programming Change

When FOX announced its “American Idol” schedule, tonight’s Hollywood episode was only scheduled to be one hour. And now not only is it two hours, but it will also reveal some of the top 24—an “Idol” first. Normally that announcement is reserved for the always dramatic “Green Mile” episode where the contestants take the long walk/elevator ride to the judges.

So why the change? Three reasons: 1) It’s February sweeps 2) The Olympics are on 3) Tonight’s episode of “Lost” centers on Locke. In other words, it’s one competitive night and FOX is pulling out all of the stops.

Since I have no idea what’s going to happen tonight, I have no idea how to bring it to you. I guess I’ll just see how it goes.

But whatever I do I’ll have to do it quickly because I’ll have an episode of “Lost” to watch. It’s bound to be a doozy…

Tonight's "Idol" begins at 8 p.m. on FOX...