Akron Watson News

American Idol executive producer Nigel Lythgoe spoke about the recent controvery surrounding a dismissed contestant at a press conference today.

Lythgoe was asked why, if the show cut Akron Watson back in November just before he was to leave for Hollywood, did they run the audition clip?

"Because it was a very important part of the show that was unique," said Lythgoe, of the man who's mug shot we've posted here. "It's like a lot of other people. Their stories are in there because I believe it's a good story that will disappear in Hollywood. This boy is being pulled out before he disappeared in Hollywood."

Added Lythgoe: "I'm not privy to what the guy's done for the rest of his life. We treat everybody the same and he was part of that process."

The producer did not comment on Ashlyn Carr and her fate.

On Tuesday night, American Idol viewers watched Dallas-born Akron Watson score a golden ticket to Hollywood after singing Sam Cooke's "Change is Gonna Come" and Marvin Gaye's "Let's Get It On."

But on Wednesday, news reports emerged that Watson was told three months after his audition by Idol producers that he was no longer invited to participate in the competition. So, what happened?

The 23-year-old singer claims that on Nov. 9, two days before he was set to leave for Los Angeles, he received a phone call telling him not to come.

"From that point I asked why?" Watson tells People magazine. "(The producer) said he didn't have a reason. He didn't know why. He said that his bosses don't divulge that information to him."

TMZ.com reported on Wednesday that it was a prior misdemeanor possession of marijuana charge from 2003 that got him ousted from the competition.

But Watson insists that before auditioning for American Idol, he told producers about his past.

"I was completely open about my background, any trouble I had been in, my medical history – everything!" he sats. "They ask all that information before you audition."

Watson, who's now a full-time student at Collin County Community College in Texas, isn't giving up on his Idol dreams. He's created his own MySpace page to garner support for his story – and is asking people to sign a petition to help him get another shot at going on the show.

"I earned my way in, and you knew about my background, I have no clue why you wouldn't let me go and perform," insists Watson. "It seems like I deserve that opportunity. I still want to know why it is I've been cut. And I still want the opportunity to be on American Idol."

Another contestant, Ashlyn Carr, has ran into legal trouble, as well. We'll keep you updated about her future on the show.

Those who watched the American Idol auditions in San Antonio last night should be excited about two new hopefuls moving on to Hollywood:

1. Ashlyn Carr
2. Akron Watson

Legal problems are now swirling around each, however - and one looks to have been disinvited to Hollywood due to a brush with the law.

Let's start with Carr (pictured). The 18-year enjoyed a unique experience in front of the judges last night: Simon was the only one who approved of her audition. Because of his sway with Randy and Paula, however, Ashlyn was actually invited back for a second chance; upon which, she received her golden ticket.

However, an article on MySanAntonio.com talks about a Sam Houston student who was arrested for pouring sugar in her ex-boyfriend's gas tank. Carr reportedly admitted to the crime, which took place after her Idol audition. Therefore, the singer's Hollywood status is unknown at this time.

The same cannot be said for Watson. He's out ... for now. Despite impressing judges with his vocal talent, Akron has been dismissed from Hollywood. The reasons aren't known, but an arrest for marijuana possession has been assumed to be it.

Because other contestants with criminal records have made the journey, though, Watson is doing all he can to protest. You can read his side at Watson's MySpace page and take action if you wish to see this talent receive another shot at stardom.