X Factor Shocker

X FACTOR SHOCKER: Last night’s left-field elimination on The X Factor of America’s Sweetheart Rachel Crow, coming on the heels of last week’s Drew exit and ensuing controversy leaves L.A. Reid with two finalists (Chris Rene and the indomitable Marcus Canty, who has dodged three straight bullets with “Save Me” songs) and the show’s executive producer Simon Cowell just one (favorite Melanie Amaro). Nicole Scherzinger has the other one, dark horse soul-rocker Josh Krajcik. Cowell’s own arrogance has worked against him two weeks in a row, with Nicole first sending Drew home, then nixing the adorable Crow this week to force a hung panel, putting the onus on the American public. Plenty of criticism over the ex-Pussycat Dolls’ decision this week not to make a decision. At any point, the sight of Cowell stewing in his own juices on the show he executive produces was priceless, as L.A. kicks his ass. In fact, if he hadn't changed his mind and personally brought Amaro back after the house auditions, Simon would be without anyone in the Final Four. Wonder if he's having second thoughts about his choice of judges. A winner will be tapped for the $5 million prize (and don't forget the Pepsi Super Bowl spot) next week. (12/9p)