THE MARKET: Will David Cook win “American Idol”? The hour-long reality show airs Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 8:00 p.m. on FOX. If David Cook wins “American Idol,” shares are worth $100. If he doesn’t, they’re worth $0. The market will close when the contestant is eliminated or at 5:00 PT on the day of the “American Idol” finale on May 21st.
THE LOWDOWN: As usual, the 7th season of “American Idol” has set tongues wagging as much for what is happening off the stage as on it. So far there has been controversy surrounding contestants who are allegedly a former male stripper, and an old flame of Britney Spears who may also be a wig-wearer. There are further suspicions that some contestants are paid professionals rather than true “amateurs.” There have also been the usual fireworks between Simon Cowell and Ryan Seacrest. Amid all the shenanigans, they still manage to hold twice-weekly singing contests. Will David Cook be the next “American Idol”?
THE PR: Early oddsmakers have pegged David Archuleta, Michael Johns, and Carly Smithson as the favorites. For round-the-clock coverage, look no further than our favorite “American Idol” resource.

LEARN MORE:
See the “American Idol” Home Page.
See TV.com for a running episode count and air dates.