Nude Photos Deliver American Idol Vote for Antonella Barba

Many speculated that the topless photos of Antonella Barba that emerged would give the less than stellar singer exactly the boost she needed to keep her in the popularity contest that is American idol at least one more week. And when she was pulled on stage by Ryan Seacrest on Thursday during the elimination round those that understand that much knew she would survive. In fact, when Seacrest hesitated and made it seem like Antonella would be voted off she looked absolutely shocked.

But of course she stays, even though in the real world of singing, she would already have been dumped as she has had two performances that were sub par. Add to that she is surrounded by very talented gals that are so far above her in singing talent and stage presence. But Antonella has an edge.

The racy pictures that have emerged have not only the Internet world buzzing, but also you can see her on many cable TV shows each night. The photos are discussed nightly on all of the cable news stations and on local network newscasts. And guess what that does? It delivers votes. She survived and is now in the top sixteen of American idol. She likely doesn't belong, but in fairness to the sexy singer neither do have the guys. But she's in for one more week and certainly the reason is the photos.

The others that were eliminated this week can't really complain. Leslie Hunt and Alaina Alexander were not ready for prime time quite yet. And here's a tip for any of the women, don't sing any Dixie Chicks song. The snobs that screw up the Grammy Awards each year don't even watch American idol. Let alone vote for it. That said - it will take a lot for Antonella to survive next week. But - stranger things have happened.