The Comet’s very own Idolholic, an industry insider who chooses to remain anonymous, offers us analysis and insight into the double elimination episode. Much to the Idolholic’s chagrin, Drew and Astro get sent home.

And so there were 5…X Factor has narrowed the field of contestants to a mere handful who will now vie for the unprecedented $5 million prize and recording contract. But the paring down of the group did not come without some head-scratching disappointment and palpable tension and hostility among the audience and the mentors.

There were no issues with Melanie and Rachel quickly soaring on to the next round. And, even though he had an off-night, Josh was able to shrug it off and join the girls. But, I have to take strong exception with Chris singled out first to move forward in the competition. Come on, America. The young man has had a rough time of it, but he is nowhere near in the same league as his fellow contestants vocally.

That left us with the harsh reality that among Marcus and inexplicably Astro and Drew, two had sung their last songs on the show. Unfortunately, we learn that Astro has received the lowest number of votes and is sent home. His age, attitude and inexperience aside, this kid was probably the most original and memorable among the entire crop of talent this season. The studio audience was not happy. I really hope that LA and Simon will see their way to signing him to a deal. They could make a lot of money!

That left Marcus and a visibly shaken and tearful Drew. I had predicted last night that Marcus’ continually off-key performances should send him packing.  And he did not let me down with another lackluster vocal. But poor Drew, saddled with the one-dimensional scarlet letter that LA, Nicole, and now even Paula, had branded her with simply crumbled under the pressure and did not perform up to her capabilities.

Simon took full blame and made a last-ditch effort to convince the ladies to save her so he could coach Drew to a more upbeat and perhaps teen-voter friendly showcase next week. Sadly, it was not to be as both Nicole and Paula brought Drew’s dreams to a crashing halt.  So The Idolholic missed the mark this time around. And in a very rare moment (for him) of true reality TV, Simon lost his cool a bit and made absolutely no attempt to hide his anger or disdain for the outcome.