And then there were……13??

The judges expanded the “American Idol” top 12 to include Anoop Desai and make it a top 13 for the first time in a suspense-generating stunt.

But Tatiana Del Toro, with all her tears, ambition, drama and unpredictability, will have to find a stage other than “Idol” to emote on. Is the show better off?anoop-desai

Instead, we get Anoop, who has emerged as Mr. Likeability with the judges. But does he have the same rapport with viewers, who eliminated him in week one in favor of Alexis Grace, Danny Gokey and Michael Sarver.

Along with Anoop, the judges also brought back Jasmine Murray, Matt Giraud and Megan Joy Corkrey. Bringing them back is a way for the judges to correct the tyranny of the “Idol” majority, but do they have the chops to survive without a helping hand from the judges?

It’s a diverse line up, with Anoop, blind singer Scott McIntyre and Puerto Rican Jorge Nunez, along with teens Allison Iraheta and Jasmine. Paula Abdul told Iraheta, 16, she reminded her of season one champion Kelly Clarkson.

Clarkson herself will perform on “Idol” next week when the competition at last gets down to serious business. Rapper Kanye West will also make a guest appearance in what could be a sign of the star quality to come over the next few weeks.

Who will be the breakout talent now that “Idol” has its top 13 — and who should “Idol” producers bring on as mentors to the wannabe stars? Funfare