ARTISTRY IN MOTION ELIMINATED ON RANDY JACKSON PRESENTS AMERICA'S BEST DANCE CREW

Randy Jackson Presents: America’s Best Dance Crew rocked to the music of Beyonce on the series’ second episode on Sunday night, eight crews questing for the show’s dancing crown and$100,000 grand prize.

Host Mario Lopez opened the show with the announcement of two teams voted safe by fans and moving on to another week -- We Are Heroes and Rhythm City.

Beyonce assigned each of the crews their “unique task” based on her music.

First up in the Beyonce challenge were We Are Heroes – assigned a grind section of hit Single Ladies. Shane Sparks said, “You murdered it. You all killed it from beginning to end.” Lil Mama opined, “One of the favorite parts was when you created a heart.” And JC Chasez added, “We saw a lot of different styles in one performance – overall I did like the performance.”

Second was Rhythm City from the Bronx who Beyonce assigned the Charleston performed to Sweet Dreams. Lil Mama led off with, “I liked how you started out the performance, and you ended the same way. It was okay; it was clean.” JC Chasez opined, “You guys have to respect your history, learn from it and take it to the next level.” And Shane Sparks complimented, “This was the most creative piece I’ve seen in a while. I saw creativity, a little theatrical -- I loved that.”

Lopez then named two more crews voted safe by fans -- Massive Monkeys and Beat Ya Feet Kings.

Beyonce provided a very creative assignment to Massive Monkeys – using hula-hoops to Work It Out. JC Chasez enthused, “JD jumps over four hula hoops. That’s bananas. Stunts were great. Good job.” Shane Sparks said, “With those hula-hoops I was like, what’s going on there? Next time let’s get rid of the hula hoops.” Lil Mama said, “I think this group is very entertaining. I was excited.”

Beat Ya Feet Kings, in the bottom three last week, performed to Crazy In Love. Shane Sparks said, “It wasn’t my favorite piece, but what you came up with was very nice.” JC Chasez added, “I think you’ve gotta get loose, but not get sloppy. It was nice to see your sportsmanship up there.” Lil Mama, “Your personality was on point from end to end. Beyonce. Beyonce.”

Of the four crews still waiting to hear who would move on, Lopez said announced that two crews coming back next week would be Southern Movement and Vogue Evolution. That meant, said Lopez, “Artistry In Motion vs AfroBorike– for one of you, it is your last week on the show.”

Southern Movement provided a country feel to “Jumpin Jumpin” – their assignment being bounce, shake, twist and dip. Lil Mama said, “I like how you kept the female feminine. You all could have brought it. It was okay.” Shane Sparks opined, “The beginning was so sharp. You keep blowing my mind. I loved it.” JC Chasez added, “You came out really clean. I don’t know if the difficulty level was there so turn up the difficulty a little bit.”

Vogue Evolution was asked to go to the roots of dance with Déjà vu. JC Chasez expressed, “You guys just woke me up. There are so many things that I liked about the performance. You used the whole stage. You connected with the audience.” Lil Mama said, “You all brought the energy that the show needed tonight.” And Shane Sparks added, “Naomi, every day someone is saying your name. They love you. Now I see why. You ripped the stage tonight.”

“AfroBorike and Artistry In Motion, only one of you can survive,” reminded Lopez.

Both crews performed back-to-back. Artistry In Motion, up first, strutted their stuff to Diva. And AfroBorike followed with a routine working belly dancing into Beautiful Liar.

Lil Mama said, “Artistry In Motion had the toughest challenge tonight. That chain was amazing."

Shane Sparks said of AfroBorike, “What I like is that you bring something different and yet intertwined it with what is happening today.”

And JC Chasez concluded, “I think this is two good crews going head-to-head. Artistry In Motion, I liked the story line. There’s only 45 seconds,and you did kind of hold back a bit. AfroBorike, I see chemistry and a real sexuality. It was fun to watch -- again two great crews battling it out.”

In winner take all showdown, host Mario Lopez – after a lengthy pause to ponder who would survive an who would go home – announced that the evening’s survivor was AfroBorike.

Artistry In Motion was eliminated from the competition, and the crew’s banner fell.

Seven crews move on to another round next week.

VICTORIA BECKHAM NOT IN TALKS TO JOIN IDOL FULL-TIME SAYS HER REP

"She is not in talks to join the show permanently," Victoria Beckham representative Cheryl Maisel told E!News.

When Beckham joined judges Simon Cowell, Randy Jackson and Kara DioGuardi for auditions in Boston, speculation heightened that Beckham might be a replacement for Paula Abdul. Cowell, by the way, was the person who contacted Beckham to ask her to guest judge.

Instead, though, Maisel revealed to E!News that Beckham is focusing on efforts aimed at the upcoming Fashion Week.

But while a replacement for Paula is constantly speculated upon, it seems that fans are more interested in where Paula will go than who will replace her.

There are rumors that she will join ABC -- to be a celebrity dancer on Dancing With the Stars, make a guest appearance on Ugly Betty and possibly have a show of her own too. The show will announce its celebrity dancers for the new season on Monday, and the network said that one contender will be on hand for an interview. The question has been asked -- might that mystery contender be Paula?

But So You Think You Can Dance wants her. And Idol Australia wants her too!

Where Paula will end up, so far nobody seems to know! There is lots of speculation, but so far no real answers!

SIMON IS SUPPORTIVE OF PAULA "BEHIND THE SCENES" -- RANDY AND KARA AS WELL

Paula Abdul reportedly has been offered a chance to judge on Idol, but it is Idol in Australia, not Idol in the USA, according to newsday.

The Australian Idols show has “put a request to strike a deal with her in writing,” according to Radaronline. The Australian version of the show should feel like home to Abdul because it is similar to the American version – has four judges and follows an almost identical format.

But rumors are also circulating that there is at least a glimmer of possibility that Paula might return to American Idol! Fellow judge Simon Cowell is reportedly supporting her "behind the scenes."

“Don’t count out a return to ‘American Idol’ for Paula,” a source is quoted on Radaronline. “Sure there are bad feelings, but a last-second return is not out of the question.” That source revealed that Idol judge Simon Cowell has been very supportive of Paula “behind the scenes” – that fellow judges Randy Jackson and Kara DioGuardi are also supportive. And, of course, host Ryan Seacrest has said that he wants Paula back on Idol too.

Abdul, of course, has been described as disappointed that she was earning considerably less money than her male counterparts, felt that some show connections failed to do enough to defend her against rumors that she feels cost her endorsement deals – and felt that the addition of DioGuardi to the judging panel was a message from producers that she could be replaced.

The Idol show offered Abdul $5 million, half of what she wanted and far less than earning of both host Ryan Seacrest and judge Simon Cowell.

But perhaps with a return to contract negotiations, the hurt feelings can be mended and a deal agreed upon.

And while American Idol winners and contestants have overwhelmingly expressed disappointment and sadness that Abdul may not return to Idol, first season winner Kelly Clarkson feels that the situation is actually all about “drama,” reports MTV.

Clarkson, appearing on Morning Mashup Show, opined, “I totally think they’re doing that for drama. I know those producers – they’re doing that for drama. She’s totally probably going to come back.”

Meanwhile, there is no lack of interest in Paula from other possible suitors. And if the offers are good enough, what would it cost Idol executives to bring her back?

There have been rumors that Abdul has been offered a guest spot on “Ugly Betty” – as a temp at Mode who becomes friendly with Amanda. And it is a fact that execs for both “So You Think You Can Dance” and “Dancing For the Stars” have said that they would love for Paula to join their shows.

RANDY JACKSON PARTIES AT ANNUAL PLAYBOY "MIDSUMMER NIGHT'S DREAM" EVENT

American Idol's Ryan Seacrest, Simon Cowell and Randy Jackson were among stars who partied with "lingerie-clad" models at the Playboy Mansion on Saturday night.

The annual "Midsummer Night's Dream" party, Hefner's biggest event of the year, was held at the 83-year-old Hef's Hombly Hills home. Men were expected to wear their finest pajamas, while the ladies were to don their skimpiest lingerie.

While the Idol trio's pj's were not described, it was reported that basketball star Shaquille O'Neal wore a pair of Superman boxers and a plain white t-shirt.

A total of 800 guests attended the party -- with the mansion said to be decorated in a Greco-Roman style with ostrich feather fans, painted murals and sequins.

Among guests besides Seacrest, Cowell and Jackson -- were Jon Voight, Jack Osbourne, James Van Der Beek, Shannon Elizabeth, Justin Chatwin, Bridget Marquardt, Shane West, Crispin Glover, Derek Hough, Mark Ballas, Brett Ratner, Ty Pennington, Bill Maher, Garry Marshall, Pauly Shore, Brody Jenner and David Cassidy.

Performances were given by Three 6 Mafia and Sean Kingston.

AMERICAN IDOL JUDGE SIMON COWELL EXPECTED TO REMAIN ON THE SHOW FOR ANOTHER THREE YEARS

American Idol judge Simon Cowell is expected to remain on Idol for at least another three seasons, according to SKX chairman and CEO Robert Sillerman.

Sillerman, in a quarterly and six-month earnings report conference call indicated that Cowell is finalizing a deal with Fox that will keep him on American Idol for another three years.

Cowell has for months implied that he was tired of continuous travel between Britain and the US – and might actually cut back on his U.S. schedule and instead concentrate more on his work in Britain.

“We’ve heard from Fox, who has asked us for approval for Simon Cowell to appear for three more years on Idol,” Sillerman explained. “They, in their negotiations with Cowell, have asked us to pre-approve him not only for ‘American Idol’ 09, which has begun taping, but they have also asked us for approval for ’10 and ’11, indicating to us that they’re finishing their negotiations with Cowell. We did grant approval for that, quite obviously.”

No financial details regarding Cowell’s contract negotiations were revealed, but rumors are that Cowell may garner something in the neighborhood of $45 million under a new deal – an increase over the reported $36 million under his current contract.

American Idol host Ryan Seacrest recently inked a three-year, $45 million deal for a return to Idol and other projects. Judge DioGuardi also has signed to return to Idol. And judge Randy Jackson is under contract through the coming season. But the show’s connections and judge Paula Abdul apparently suspended contract negotiations when they failed to reach a meeting of the minds on her salary. Both Fox and Abdul have indicated that she will not return to the American Idol show.

DAWG, PAULA IS MISSED AT IDOL AUDITIONS

American Idol judge Randy Jackson, at American Idol auditions in Denver, spoke of the adsence of Paula at the auditions -- saying, "We all love her. I think I may cry today. It's weird."

Judge Simon Cowell, always bluntly speaking his mind, said that he too missed Paula.

"I'm going to miss her," Cowell lamented. "She's my buddy." But Cowell said that he has spoken with Paula every day since it was announced that she would leave the show -- and he is certain that she will be okay.

Cowell did say that Paula has been handling the entire situation of her departure from Idol well. While she has made it abundantly clear that she really wanted to remain on American Idol, she also said that she could not stay if Idol executives were not willing to treat her fairly. And, since contract negotiations seemingly fallen apart, apparently Paula feels that Idol execs indeed being unfair.

"Paula has been very cool about the whole thing," said Cowell. "And let me tell you, Paula is going to be fine."

The final regular judge, Kara DioGuardi, said that she was wearing black -- in mourning. I'm very sad. She's sad, but it was her choice."

Somehow it seems that everyone is sad -- except for CKX and its wholly owned subsidiary 19 Entertainment that have been out spending their money elsewhere, this weekend buying controlling interest in a UK-modeling agency.

RANDY JACKSON'S AMERICA'S BEST DANCE CREW PREMIERES -- FR3SH WAS FIRST CREW ELIMINATED

Randy Jackson’s “America’s Best Dance Crew” began its fourth season last night – and host Mario Lopez told viewers that” this season’s new crew’s are “more diverse, underground and driven than ever.” One of these crews will be chosen as the new champion and win the $100,000 prize!

Every week one crew will be eliminated, explained Lopez. On this premiere show, the first to be sent home was the NJ crew Fr3sh – who performed admirably, but not well enough to continue on in the competition. As they danced, according to tradition, fans watched their banner fall.

First up was five-member Beat Ya Feet Kings of Southeast D.C. who stepped up with a lively go-go performance to Backyard Band’s “Skillet.” Judge Shane Sparks said, “I loved the footwork – just a little bit sloppy to me. “ Lil Mama agreed with Sparks, but said that the group needed to keep their energy up. JC Chasez said that it is still early, adding, “When go-go kicked, I loved the energy that you guys gave.”

Second was We Are Heroes, an all-girl crew from around the world and Los Angeles, that performed to Justice’s “Waters of Nazareth.” Lil Mama said, “It was a little slow getting into the performance, but you are super flexible. I love women who come to the show and give strength.” Chasez said, “Popping was great.” And Sparks, “I don’t think you started slow at all. You were teasing about what you will show in the future. I one-hundred percent loved it.”

AfroBorike, a boy and girl crew representing Cuba and Puerto Rico, showed their quick salsa moves to Marc Anthony’s “Aguanlie.” Chasez opined, “So much strength to this group. It’s great, and it’s very sexy to see. I had a lot of fun watching you.” Sparks, though, said they need to “pick up (their) choreography. And Lil Mama, saw “some ethnic with hip-hop and a perfect balance of masculine with feminine.”

From the first three crews, advancing were We Are Heroes and AfroBorike. In danger were Beat Ya Feet who went into the sudden death face-offs.

Massive Monkeys are Seattle breakdancers who performed to N.E.R.D.’s “Kill Joy.” Sparks remarked, “From beginning to end, that’s what I am talking about. You came out with fire.” Chasez, “I love the fact that you have community support. Hey, man, it’s a competition.” Lil Mama said the group “set the tone for the rest of the show.”

Classically trained Artistry in Motion, another all-girl crew, made their moves to Bassment Jaxx’s “SFM.” Lil Mama said, “You guys are incredible – definitely giving inspiration to girls out there right now. You had the tightest choreography on the show so far.” Sparks agreed, “That was a flawless routine.” And Chasez added, “I thought you had a mostly clean routine, but the line at the end did get a little flustered.”

And the final crew in the second set was country crew Southern Movement from Nashville -- who stepped up with a cowboy effect to Dierks Bentley’s “Sideways.” Chasez said, “You were really animated.” Lil Mama said, “I love the energy.” And Sparks wrapped up the critique with, “I was really going to laugh, but you can dance your butts off. You were ripping the stage tonight. And I like the fact that you are learning and bringing new stuff to the show.”

Sent to safety by the judges from the first set were Massive Monkeys and Artistry In Motion – and placed in danger was Southern Movement.

First in the final set was the seven-member Rhythm City crew from the Bronx who performed their hip-hop to Mim’s “Life of a Star.” Sparks spoke, “From the choreography you killed it. It’s crazy because you nailed everything. So much energy--the Bronx is in the building again.” Lil Mama said, “I definitely agree. The way you brought it was crazy.” And Chasez hailed the crew, saying, “That was probably the cleanest performance we have seen tonight. It was in the details. You are my favorites so far.”

Next was a group of friends from the New Jersey, Fr3sh performjed to MOP’s “Ante Up.” Chasez said, “Dirty Jersey is in the house you all. I thought it was a lot of fun. There was a part in the routine that got tough and you were all smiling.” Sparks added, “I liked your energy. You were using the body. I love that.” And Lil Mama, “I loved the choice of music. You are incredible. It was good.”

And finally Vogue Evolution from New York City moved to Chelly’s “Took the Night.” Lil Mama, “You guys are perfect. You are definitely bringing a new element to the show. It’s daring.” Chasez said, “I like the fact that you are battle-tested, have been competing in underground clubs. The drama was wonderful.” Sparks concluded, "I don’t know how I feel because you ripped the stage, but I didn’t know what to expect. It is time for your style to be exposed.”

In the final round, passed along to next week were Rhythm City and Vogue Evolution – with Fr3sh moved in danger of elimination.

The three groups established in the sudden-death face off were Fr3sh, Beat Ya Feet Kings and Southern Movement. Each of these crews “tore it up” for 30 seconds to the same song -- and “Fr3sh” was named by the judges to head home in what was the first elimination of the season.