Storybook ending a savvy move for Idol

Now that American Idol airs on a Disney property, was this season actually scripted by Disney?

Because, in a surprise twist, the season 16 finale of ABC’s American Idol on Monday night turned into a fairy tale. Toward the end of the episode, the two finalists — Caleb Lee Hutchinson, 19, and 20-year-old Maddie Poppe — revealed that they’re dating.

Hutchinson, a country crooner from Georgia, and Poppe, an indie/folksinger from Iowa, made it official on TV.

“Results are coming up very soon,” host Ryan Seacrest said, as Hutchinson and Poppe were about to sing a duet together. “But before we get to those, we want to celebrate the incredible talent that is your top two.” He turned to the duo.

“I know the song that’s coming up,” Seacrest said. “I’m just wondering, is there a special significance to the song, Caleb, when you sing it with Maddie?”

Hutchinson looked both sheepish and proud.

“Well, you know, Maddie’s like my best pal,” he said. “I’ve known her since the beginning of Hollywood Week, and you know, she, uh — she actually happens to be my girlfriend.”

Hutchinson and Poppe grinned at each other and started laughing. Even the judges lost it, as Luke Bryan maniacally pushed Katy Perry around in her swivel chair.

“So, the two of them are a couple, and they’re competing for the title,” Seacrest said. “Now, wait. You have to watch this. All right? Here they are, one final performance together.”

They sang a stirring rendition of Somewhere Over the Rainbow/What a Wonderful World. Disney had already impacted this season — there was an episode where contestants were required to sing Disney songs — but in that moment, the Disney-fication of Idol seeped out as never before.

“Oh my gosh, I’m in tears watching these two sing that song,” Seacrest said. “Whenever I hear that song, I think of feet in the sand. I think of sunsets, wide-open ocean views. Sounds lovely, doesn’t it? … Ever been to Hawaii?”

Hutchinson and Poppe looked confused.

“No,” they said. “Never? Well, that’s about to change,” Seacrest said. “Because we’re sending you, our official top two, on a vacation to Hawaii. The Aulani resort, a one-of-a-kind Disney experience in Hawaii. Congratulations!”

To sum up: A real-life surprise love story? Check. Product placement that fits perfectly with that twist? Check. Confirming that no matter who wins, the conversation will centre on both finalists? Check.

Nicely done, Disney. This televised couple announcement was a savvy move for Idol.

Finally, Seacrest announced the winner … Maddie Poppe, new owner of US$250,000 and a recording contract.