VIDEO: Kelly Clarkson Wows, Paul McDonald Cut On 'Idol'

American Idol favorite Paul McDonald, 26, a singer-songwriter from Nashville, Tenn., was eliminated from the Fox talent contest Thursday after his rendition of Bob Seger's "Old Time Rock and Roll" from "Risky Business" failed to impress voters. After judge Jennifer Lopez requested the smiling singer perform Rod Stewart's "Maggie May," McDonald, who had been an early favorite to win the competition, belted out his final number for the cheering crowd.

McDonald was joined in the bottom three by Stefano Langone, 21, the handsome singer from Kent, Wash., and Haley Reinhart, 20, a student from Wheeling, Ill.

Just prior to the elimination, Rihanna performed "California King Bed," and former Idol winner Kelly Clarkson sang a powerful duet "Don't You Wanna Stay" with Jason Aldean.

Watch it here: