The hit talent show "American Idol" eliminated another contestant Chiezie as the show narrowed the competition to nine finalists, U.S. media reported on Wednesday.

The one-name singer, 22, who previously worked security at Los Angeles International Airport, was eliminated after what the show's judges termed an "old-school," even "cheesy" performance of Luther Vandross' "If Only for One Night."

"Idol"'s blunt judge Simon Cowell criticized Chikezie for singing the ballad on Tuesday's performance show: "You chose the wrong song last night. ... It wasn't original."

The other lowest vote-getters were Jason Castro and Syesha Mercado.

Tattooed finalist Carly Smithson took a moment to address speculation she's expecting a child with her husband. She told host Ryan Seacrest: "Apparently I'm pregnant — but I'm not."

Wednesday's show also featured a performance by "Idol" also-ran Kimberley Locke, who placed third behind Ruben Studdard and Clay Aiken in season two.

(Xinhua News Agency/Agencies March 28,2008)