'Idol' judges use save

Top seven finalists perform live Wednesday on FOX

Thursday on "American Idol," in a surprising and dramatic turn of events, judges Randy Jackson, Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler saved Jessica Sanchez from elimination, after she received the fewest votes among the finalists. Sanchez will continue in the competition and take the stage along with the other six finalists next week.

On the results show, "American Idol" season three finalist and Academy Award and Grammy winner Jennifer Hudson along with Ne-Yo performed their new single, "Think Like a Man," and "American Idol" season 10 finalist James Durbin performed his new song, "Higher Than Heaven."

Next week, on Wednesday, April 18 (8 to 10 p.m.), the top seven - Hollie Cavanagh, Colton Dixon, Skylar Laine, Joshua Ledet, Phillip Phillips, Sanchez and Elise Testone - return to the "American Idol" stage to perform for America's votes.

Tune in the following night, Thursday, April 19 (8 p.m.), to the live results show to find out which top seven finalist is sent home. In addition, LMFAO performs its smash hit, "Sorry For Party Rocking," and "American Idol" season eight winner Kris Allen performs his new single, "The Vision Of Love."

"Like" "American Idol" on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/AmericanIdol. Follow the series on Twitter @AmericanIdol and join the discussion at #Idol. Also, follow host Ryan Seacrest at @RyanSeacrest, and follow the judges: @yo_randyjackson, @JLo and @iamstevent.

See what happens every Thursday when the show ends, but the cameras keep rolling, as the eliminated finalist says an emotional goodbye and exits the "American Idol" stage. Visit www.americanidol.com for this exclusive insider's view each week after the West Coast broadcast of the results show, as well as for exclusive videos, interviews, photos and special behind-the-scenes information.