Idol: Simon Gives Adam Lambert Standing Ovation
Apr. 8 2009, Published 12:32 p.m. ET
It's uncommon for Simon Cowell to get on his feet for anyone, but Adam Lambert is anything but common.
Lambert, favored by many as the preemptive winner of this season's American Idol competition, followed in Gary Jules' footsteps in covering Tears For Fears' 1982 single Mad World.
A crouched Lambert mystified the audience and panel with his performance, as the somber ballad (chosen from his birth year, 1982) complemented his vivid, emotional voice.
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Though time constraints prevented the usual gooey sweet helping of praise from the judges, an impressed Cowell told the 27-year-old singer: "Words aren't necessary, but I want to give you a standing ovation."
See what America thought of Lambert on Wednesday's results show, which airs at 9/8c.