contestants

Name: Patrick Fortson

Age: 22

From: Terre Haute, IN

Occupation: Manages/supervises a group home for four handicapped men

Final 32 performance: Patrick was second to perform in the first group of semi-finalists on Feb. 4. Whilst his take on Toni Braxton's "Unbreak My Heart" seemed to go down well, Simon was concerned about his appearance, telling him: "If this is the front of the record sleeve, God help American Idol."

Next appearance: Patrick is in with a shot for the wildcard show on March 4.

Who is Patrick's American Idol? Whitney Houston or Stevie Wonder

Why does he want to be an American Idol? "To touch people's lives, do what I love to do and course, money."

Favourite judge? "Paula, because she really gives good comments and helps you, not hurts you."