[Update, Friday 3 p.m.: James Durbin will appear Saturday at a hometown celebration at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. ]
Here's a shocker, and a distinct bummer, if you're a fan of Santa Cruz's own James Durbin: He was voted off "American Idol" this evening. The show is not even airing yet in the Pacific time zone, and he's history. He was a fan favorite for many reasons, including the fact he's overcome diagnoses of Asperger's and Tourette's syndromes to become a serious contender in the "Idol" competition.
Here's an excellent earlier post, with radio audio, from KQED's Rachel Dornhelm on what Durbin means to Santa Cruz: 'A Different American Idol.'
Links
The people speak: Twitter reaction to James Durbin vote
MTV: James Durbin Sent Home in 'American Idol' Shocker
San Jose Mercury: Spoiler alert! 'American Idol' elimination results
Baltimore Sun: 'American Idol' results: Top 3 revealed
CNN: Can you believe what happened on 'Idol'
Reuters Canada: Tearful rocker James Durbin exits 'American Idol'