At most Hollywood bashes, the red carpet is the prelude to the main event. But at Fox's annual party Thursday trumpeting the final 12 contestants on "American Idol," the red carpet is the event.
That's because the dozen finalists don't just walk this media line. They work it, in pairs, for what seems like hours at a time.
No quick grin and twist here. These overnight celebrities come not to schmooze, but to begin the process of campaigning for votes. This is the Iowa caucuses for America's favorite election, only here "ET" and People have replaced CNN and the New York Times. And instead of the snowy climes of Iowa, it's a warm spring night at the Pacific Design Center.
The red carpet scene takes place on an outdoor balcony, with partygoers inside peering at the scene through a glass window. Simon Cowell came early, but we didn't see Paula or Randy (they were supposedly there).
Fox Entertainment prexy Peter Liguouri also made a quick visit, no doubt to ensure the continued good favor of the "Idol" gods who've kept Fox in the hunt for first place. Mark Burnett Prods. exec Roy Bank also stopped by, taking time to bond with Fox reailty guru Mike Darnell over the success of their new hit quizzer "Are You Smarter Than A Fifth Grader?" And somebody forgot to tell Justin Guarini, who still has the same crazy hair, that it's not 2002.
Because "Idol" is such a huge media event, the bash attracts journos from all the major pubs. USA Today's Bill Keveney, who turns into the Bob Woodward of "Idol" for six months each year, might have been fired had he missed this event.
Nearly three hours after it began, the party is still going strong, but there's still no sign that any of the "Idol" 12 have made it off the red carpet and into the actual party. Doesn't matter. Tonight, the party is just an excuse to justify the red carpet. (J. Adalian)



