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Last Update on February 08, 2012 08:20 GMT

HOLLYWOOD WEEK ON "AMERICAN IDOL" IS SICKLY AND UNSTABLE

LOS ANGELES (AP) -- Hollywood Week on "American Idol" is usually punctuated by tears and frustration. This year, add vomiting and fainting to the mix. Executive producer Nigel Lythgoe (LITH'-goh) says most of the contestants from the East Coast did not realize how dry Los Angeles is, and they failed to stay hydrated. He says contestant Amy Brumfield, AKA "Tent Girl," brought a virus with her and it spread like wildfire. Lythgoe says one contestant literally fell off the stage. He says they only have a wide shot of that because the cameraman closest to her tried to catch her. Hollywood Week starts tonight on "Idol."

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<<CUT ..006 (02/08/12)>> 00:28 ""

Margie Szaroleta (zar-oh-LEH'-tah)

Hollywood Week on "American Idol" is about to get more dramatic than usual. AP music correspondent Margie Szaroleta has more. ((opens with music))

<<CUT ..007 (02/08/12)>> 00:17 "off their personalities"

Nigel Lythgoe (LITH'-goh)

"American Idol" executive producer Nigel Lythgoe says for Hollywood Week contestants are judged on harmonies and choreography, but that's not important for the rest of the competition. ((note length of cut))

<<CUT ..008 (02/08/12)>> 00:13 "stupidity or dehydration"

Nigel Lythgoe (LITH'-goh)

"American Idol" executive producer Nigel Lythgoe says contestants during Hollywood week either drank too many energy drinks or not enough water -- but there was another factor at play.

<<CUT ..009 (02/08/12)>> 00:08 "you'll see it"

Nigel Lythgoe (LITH'-goh)

"American Idol" executive producer Nigel Lythgoe says one problem with Hollywood Week is contestants from the East Coast don't realize how dry California is. ((cut used in wrap))

<<CUT ..010 (02/08/12)>> 00:17 "top of him"

Nigel Lythgoe (LITH'-goh)

"American Idol" executive producer Nigel Lythgoe says contestant Simone Black fell off the stage during Hollywood Week. ((note length of cut))