'American Idol' thrives on controversy

You've got to hand it to the folks at Fox and "American Idol" for dealing with their latest problem, although you've also got to wonder how they let it get as far as it did.

Joanna Pacitti was ruled ineligible, but that information wasn't released until after last week's episode in which 36 finalists were announced.

(She was replaced by the previously eliminated Felicia Barton.)

You've got to remember that the episode was taped back in December; the decision to rule Pacitti ineligible obviously came sometime between then and last week.

What we haven't seen is any sort of explanation as to why Pacitti was axed. Which has led to some erroneous speculation about both her and other contestants — including Utahn Taylor Vaifanua.

Pacitti was this year's prime example of a professional posing as an amateur. The 24-year-old already has a long professional resume, including a stint starring on Broadway when she was 11, a CD release on Geffen Records in 2006 and songs on the soundtracks for both "Legally Blonde" and "Bratz."

In other words, like Carly Smithson last season, Pacitti was seen by some viewers as a professional who's already had her shot at fame and failed. And "Idol" is supposed to be about untapped talent.

However, her prior experience is NOT why Pacitti was eliminated. The show's eligibility rules clearly state that anyone (who meets the age requirements) who is not currently under contract is eligibile.

When this came up last season in regards to Smithson, then-executive producer Nigel Lythgoe put "American Idol" in perspective.

"Goodness me, if Elvis Presley came back and was out of contract — and was able to (meet the age restrictions) — then he would be in the competition," Lythgoe said. "Nobody said this is an amateur competition."

But those who haven't been paying attention are suggesting that because Vaifanua, the 17-year-old from Hurricane, recorded a CD that was available at Deseret Book, she should be tossed out with Pacitti. And that's just dumb.

If a resurrected, rejuvenated Elvis would be eligible, there's no question about Vaifanua.

While Fox has not released any details about Pacitti's disqualification, speculation centers on her relationship with executives at 19 Entertainment, which produces "Idol." Reportedly, she was axed to avoid the appearance of impropriety.