‘He needed this opportunity,’ judge says of the disqualified contestant.
By Katie Byrne

Simon Cowell

Photo: Gustavo Caballero/ Getty Images

“American Idol” fans remember Chris Golightly’s initial audition fondly, thanks to his volatile upbringing and silky-smooth vocals. Simon Cowell also recalls that tryout — but not for the same reasons.

“I remember Chris’ first audition very well, because Kara was completely and utterly besotted with him,” the outgoing “Idol” judge laughed while talking to reporters Thursday (February 18). “I wasn’t quite so keen on him. And then the second and third time we saw him in Hollywood Week, he wasn’t as strong as he was on his first audition.”

We all know by now that the judges were keen enough on Golightly to send him through to the top 24 this season, only to be replaced by Tim Urban in the 11th hour. A contract misunderstanding is at the center of his dismissal, but Cowell claims to not know a thing about that end of things.

“I really, honestly don’t have a clue why he’s been removed from the competition,” Cowell said. “I’m guessing it’s some sort of technical reason.”

What Cowell does know is that the down-on-his-luck singer really could have used the break. “It’s a shame for him,” he said. “He needed this opportunity.”

Now that Cowell is on his way out, he might be able to help the Justin Guarini hair-alike by landing him a new gig. What would Cowell think about giving Golightly another shot on “The X Factor,” when the American version debuts in fall 2011?

“Well, I’ve gotta find out what the reason [for his disqualification] is first!” Cowell laughed. “If it was something like a technical reason, yeah, of course he could.”

Get your “Idol” fix on MTV News’ “American Idol” page, where you’ll find all the latest news, interviews and opinions.

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