Today Tabloid

Everybody knows Pinoy Idol is a talent search solely based on text votes. But it still pains you when one winnable contestant goes home bereft of the title and the fame that comes with it. Many who rooted for Kid Camaya were not spared from that reality recently.

"It all boils down to text voting," replies Kid when asked to explain the results of the show's last elimination night. "That's the difference. In the end, it is no longer about Idol. It's about after Idol - what will happen to us (our careers)."

Kid's unexpected exit from Pinoy Idol was one for the books. He came on strong during "the greatest performance night" and received rave reviews from judges Ogie Alcasid, Jolina Magdangal and Wyngard Tracy.

Before the elimination started, judges singled out Kid along with Jayann Bautista and Ram Chaves as the Final 3 who will battle it out tonight after GMA 7's Pinoy Records at the SM Mall of Asia's SMX. The announcement of the winner is tomorrow, Aug. 17, after GMA 7's Kap's Amazing Stories.

What surprised everyone was when host Raymond Gutierrez called Kid as the first member of the Top 5 to leave the Idol stage. Many wished Kid was the last to be eliminated since he came up with a better performance the night before the results show. The other casualty of SMS voting was another favorite, Daryl Celis.

"I was numb," says Kid. "I never felt anything. What I could think of that moment was to finish my song and make a good last impression."

Kid did just that. He performed Careless Whisper on the Idol stage and remained unperturbed until the last note.

"It was a memorable experience," shares Kid on his Pinoy Idol stint. "I grew us a performer and as a person. Your performance is a minute and a half only, but the reality happens behind the camera. It is when you meet people (and make friends) with the staff and my fellow contestants. In a short span of time, I have learned something not only about myself but also about everything. That it is scary out there."

"I was flattered when I heard the comments of the judges," adds Kid. "It was like Cloud 9 because I received them from people I look up to, not from my family."

When did he realize that his shot at becoming the Pinoy Idol was over?

"When my colleagues embraced and comforted me backstage," replies Kid. "As for my plans, I prepare for whatever surprises the network has in store for me. I think they are cooking up something for the rest of the Idol finalists. We don't have the freedom yet to do what we wish because we are under contract with GMA Artist Center."

So, who will most likely win the Idol title? "It's a mixed prediction," says Kid. "If it is talent, it's going to be a battle between Jayann and Ram. If it is text votes, it's between Gretchen and Jayann."

We will see if Kid's guess is as intelligent as those who share the same hunch.

Before the big night, Jayann, Ram and Gretchen Espina will deliver the best performance of their lives. They will vie for the judges' nod of approval and televiewers' sympathy. Expect vocal calisthenics and intense stage performances only the Top Three can offer.

Also gracing the Pinoy Idol stage in the final performance night are Basil Valdez, Hajji Alejandro, Vernie Varga, Regine Velasquez, Luke Mejares, Jett Pangan, Duncan Ramos, Southborder, Freestyle, Cueshé, Pupil, Itchyworms, Callalily and the UP Concert Chorus.

The first Pinoy Idol will bring home P1-M courtesy of SM Supermalls, an Avida Tower condominium and a brand-new car. He will have management and recording contracts with GMA Artist Center and Sony BMG