Mercado, a 21-year-old actress from Sarasota, Fla., was the last woman standing. The singer surpassed a more accomplished contestant (Carly Smithson), a fan favorite (Brooke White) and a country songster (Kristy Lee Cook).

While other contestants struggled, Mercado challenged herself with impressive song choices like Sam Cooke's "A Change Is Gonna Come." She showed more personality while swinging her hips in a glittery gold mini -skirt for a version of "Proud Mary."

With Mercado out of the way, "American Idol" can now fully hype the David vs. David match up.

There's David Archuleta, the 17-year-old singing phenomenon from Murray, Utah, with the overly involved stage dad. And there's David Cook, the 25-year-old former bartender from Blue Springs, Mo.

Who will win the American Idol final title next Wednesday?

One thing is for sure: His name will be David.

Source: By StarLink Celebrity Blog