BillyBell

I don't want to toot my own horn, but I predicted that illness would fell more reality show competitors in last week's TV Squad APB podcast. It turns out that the first to be affected was Billy Bell. Fox's official website posted a message wishing Billy a speedy recovery. There were no details of his illness.

It's a shame to see Billy go so soon. After seeing Monday's performance, which was pre-taped, he showed power and technique. He hopes to try out for Season Seven.

If you want to be spoiled on who replaced him, the replacement's partner and dance, and another injury continue reading.

(S06E09) Tonight, we started with 38 dancers, and by the end of the hour, the Top 20 stood revealed. I'm never quite sure how to take these episodes; American Idol always has one, as well. For the most part, it's just contestants walking in front of the judges and hearing "Yes" or "No." For those of us who've been watching since the beginning and finding our early favorites, it can be a little tense and exciting.

But then I think about someone who's never watched the show, and who's maybe tuning in for the first time tonight. What a boring hour of television they would be in for. You barely get any snippets from the good dancers who make it through. Mostly it's just a parade of faces you don't know and lots of crying.

But before we get to the tears, we need to get excited. For the first time, and to give everyone a more even playing field going into the first performance show, this Monday at 8pm ET, FOX offers a special non-elimination episode where the Top 20 get to show us their stuff.