'American Idol' Eliminates Ashthon Jones

After being saved by the judges during last week’s elimination show, Ashthon Jones was not as lucky on Thursday. The 24-year-old from Nashville was the first eliminated contestant from the Top 13. Although judges Randy Jackson, Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler seemed to like her take on Diana Ross' “When You Tell Me You Love Me," when the 30 million members of the audience voted, Jones came out on the bottom. The judges have the option of saving a contestant until the competition reaches the Top 5, but they unanimously decided to pass on Jones. “Not this time, baby, I'm sorry," Lopez told the dejected performer.

It was also a painful night for Casey Abrams, who was admitted to a local hospital for stress-induced stomach problems, his second trip in two weeks. Here's hoping he has a speedy recovery; the 12 remaining Idol hopefuls will perform again on Wednesday night. —EMILY EXTON