Undoubtedly, the elimination of Michael Johns from American Idol is the most shocking thing to happen all season. The fans and the media have responded with the usual surprise and speculation, but as the smoke clears a new twist has been revealed: outrage and hatred toward host Ryan Seacrest.

Generally urbane and non-threatening, Seacrest is set up to be one of the more likable aspects of the show. He seems to commiserate with contestants, makes snarky comments at Simon Cowell and always grandly announces when it’s time for another new episode to begin. We’ve seen him hug family members, laugh with contestants and do some serious live-TV damage control. So why are so many fans demanding his head on a platter?

Apparently, Idol fans are in a tiff because of the way the news was delivered to Johns. After reading countless articles and blogs posts which ranged from demanding that Ryan Seacrest be fired to saying he’s simply cruel, I finally watched the video clip. And frankly, I still don’t see what all the fuss is about.

Here’s exactly how it went down. The bottom three (Syesha, Carly, Michael) were standing on stage with Ryan Seacrest Thursday night. As usual, Ryan spoke haltingly to let the suspense build. He told Syesha and Carly they were safe, then pointed out (somewhat unnecessarily, I’ll give you that) that Johns had scored the lowest number of votes. Here’s what Seacrest said to enrage millions of fans:  “Last year, during Idol Gives Back, we didn’t eliminate anybody at this stage of the competition.” A pause. “Tonight, we’re gonna say good-bye to Michael Johns.”

Most outraged fans demand an apology from Seacrest to Johns, while others would just as soon see Ryan leave the show altogether. What I can’t figure out is why. I can’t help feeling like I’ve missed something here. Honestly, I don’t think it was intended to fake anyone out - I think he was just babbling to fill in the time. Even if he wasn’t, what difference does it make? Johns is out, like it or not, and however the news gets delivered nothing changes. But the fans are screaming for blood…so at the very least, it’ll be interesting to see how the extremely clever PR minds who work for Idol will sort this little faux pas out. Don’t think for one instant they won’t - it’ll probably be addressed tomorrow.