Taylor Hicks New American Idol Favorite

WILLEMSTAD, CURACAO -- Last night’s upset elimination of Chris Daughtry shocked fans and bettors who believed the North Carolina native was a shoe-in to become the fifth American Idol. Daughtry
Taylor Hicks may become the new American Idol  became the favorite with bettors at PinnacleSports.com, the first company to open wagering on the reality show, after the 24 Idol finalists performed for the first time. Immediately following yesterday evening’s elimination show, PinnacleSports.com released updated odds on which of the three remaining contestants will become the next American Idol.

PinnacleSports.com has received unprecedented interest in the latest edition of the hit reality show with wagering already 20 times bigger than on the Oscars and expected to rival this year’s NBA Finals. With his manic stage presence and Daughtry’s elimination, Taylor Hicks has become the new favorite to win American Idol at 5/8 odds (i.e., win $5 for every $8 bet). Despite two mediocre weeks in a row including a narrow escape last night, Katharine McPhee remains a solid Idol contender at 5/2 odds. PinnacleSports.com remains skeptical of Elliott Yamin’s chances and not only lists him as a 5/1 long shot to win the major recording contract, but has also made him the favorite to be next week’s Idol casualty at 5/9.

 “While somewhat unexpected, Chris’ elimination didn’t come as a complete surprise as we dropped his odds significantly following his lackluster performance Tuesday night,” said Simon Noble of PinnacleSports.com.
“Meanwhile, Taylor appears to have hit a high note with Idol voters and the soul patrol through his consistently impressive performances and winning stage personality.”

PinnacleSports.com will offer betting options on American Idol throughout the remainder of the series until the series finale. For a complete list of American Idol odds, please visit www.pinnaclesports.com/idol.

Current Odds:         *All odds subject to change*

Odds To Win American Idol
Taylor Hicks        5/8
Katharine McPhee    5/2
Elliott Yamin        5/1

Odds To Be Eliminated On May 17, 2006
Elliott Yamin        5/9
Katharine McPhee    9/5
Taylor Hicks        6/1