"How can we let anybody go on a charity night," said American Idol host Ryan Seacrest, after announcing that all six of the remaining contestants were safe in the "most shocking result" of the Fox megahit's history.
Instead, the 70 million votes cast by fans this week will be combined with next week's results for a double elimination.
The star-studded 'Idol Gives Back' results show was dedicated to raising money benefiting needy children in both Africa and the U.S.
Ellen DeGeneres hosted part of the two-hour special at the Walt Disney Concert Hall, that featured performances from Earth, Wind & Fire; Il Divo; Josh Groban and The African Children's Choir; Kelly Clarkson featuring Jeff Beck; and Annie Lennox.
Clad in crisp, white suits, the final six contenders performed "Time To Care," written by legendary composer Quincy Jones and closed the show with U2's "American Prayer."
Also taking to the American Idol stage was Celine Dion singing "If I Can Dream" with a virtual 1968-era Elvis.
Toward the end of the show, Seacrest announced that an estimated $30 million was already raised through viewer donations via toll-free number and the Idol web site.
Save the Children; America's Second Harvest: The Nation's Food Bank Network; Boys & Girls Clubs of America and Children's Health Fund are among the organizations benefiting American children.
Donations given to the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria; Malaria No More; Nothing But Nets; Save the Children and the U.S. Fund for UNICEF will help African children.
Inspiration-Themed Peformance Recap:
Chris Richardson- opened the show with Eric Clapton's "Change The World." "You're in it to win it," said Randy. "I'm really proud of you," said Paula. "Sexy performance," said Simon.
Melinda Doolittle- sang "There Will Come A Day" by Faith Hill. "You have arrived...Melinda is here," said Randy. "There's no one like you...you're magical," said Paula. "It wasn't a copycat performance...that was a vocal masterclass," said Simon.
Blake Lewis- performed "Imagine." "It's the first real sensitive performance I've seen from you," said Paula. "This is a tricky because you've chose one of the big songs of all time...It felt sincere," said Simon.
LaKisha Jones- sang "I Believe" by past Idol winner Fantasia. "I don't think it was your best performance, but I did like it," said Randy. "You've taken on a monster," said Paula. "I'm having an issue with the shouting," said Simon
Phil Stacey- sang "The Change" by Garth Brooks, which was written after the Oklahoma City Bombing. "A very nice vocal on a very great song," said Randy. "This was your best," said Paula. "I really like you...I think people like you," said Simon.
Jordin Sparks- closed the show with "You'll Never Walk Alone." "That was the hottest tonight America," said Randy. "It's one of those songs that is very haunting... you were glorious," said Paula. "You could have a hit record with that," said Simon.
First time in AI history. 