Judging by the look on Justin Guarini's face, it's frightening how big of a difference it makes to come in second place.

While Kelly Clarkson has played the big people stage at Universal's Gibson Amphitheater -- "American Idol" runner-up Justin Guarini is forced to rock out a free gig on the City Walk.

Taking career advice from the star of "From Justin to Kelly" probably isn't the best idea.


A TMZ spy was at the taping of "Idol Tonight" on the TV Guide Channel, where wannabeen David Hernandez was pumping Justin Guarini for advice during commercial breaks. Justin was overheard telling the former stripper, "The sky's the limit man, just get it while it's hot" and encouraging him to "make decisions for yourself."

If all else fails, "Idol Tonight" could always use a third "AI" reject host.

TMZ spies say the "Idol" party last night was fueled with emotion, and a little bitterness for good measure.

We're told booted "Idol" Asia'h Epperson was torn up and overwhelmed, staying only for a few minutes before bolting. Contestants were most upset about Luke Menard getting the ax because they liked him -- they really, really liked him, although his singing kinda sucked.

Although no underage contestants were spotted Lohaning it up, Danny Noriega and Ramiele Malubay were pretty wrecked over his elimination. The two BFFs were inseparable.

Our spies say although all the contestants were there, there was no sign of Randy, Paula, Simon or Ryan. Contestants, meet pecking order.

Click here... it's not over yet

Justin Guarini and Kimberley Locke didn't win "American Idol," but they are charging on with their careers and performing -- at the opening of a Texas outlet mall! For the love of Tiffany!

While it may not be as high profile as a residential development or a regional hot air balloon festival, Justin and Kimberley will be doing their best to entertain discount shoppers at the grand opening of The Outlet Shoppes at El Paso on Friday. "From Justin to Kelly" never looked so good! To add insult to injury, Kimberley's name is even spelled wrong in one instance.

At this rate, it won't be long before Bo Bice is at a multiplex near you -- singing in the parking lot!

While Hayden Panettiere and the hilarious cast of "The Office" brought a little A-listness to an MTV Movie Awards Luxury Lounge yesterday, the rest of the guest list read like the casting call for the next episode of "Surreal Life Does Supermarket Sweep."

Poor little Hayden was forced to surrender her hand to Jason "Gummi Bear" Davis for a kiss, as buddy David Weintraub looked on -- with David later boasting about his big feet. Elsewhere in the suite, a busty Traci Bingham waxed poetic on Lindsay and Paris, while Bree's gay son from "Desperate Housewives," Shawn Pyfrom, showed off his Dance Dance Revolution skills.

"Road Rules" star Derrick was caught getting a manicure, "Real World: New York's" The Miz was happy to be spotted sober (for once) by TMZ, and "RW: Key West's" Johnny Bananas talked s**t about Paris until he heard she may be stopping by the suite for a visit.

"Idol" wannabeen Justin Guarini, Borat sidekick Ken Davitian and Shannon Elizabeth were also in attendance, and Shar Jackson had a tip to keep Lindsay out of trouble -- "Get an Xbox!"

All this and more in today's "Gummi Meets the Cheerleader" edition of Swag Catcher.

Ever wonder what happened to Justin Guarini? Vonzell Solomon? Brian Dunkleman? Contrary to popular belief, the "American Idol" rejects are all still around. In fact, they're all about to become huge stars, all over again.

Last night the victims of the wrath of Simon Cowell came out to celebrate the show that changed their lives forever and promote a new "Idol"-based project at the exclusive Spyder Club in Hollywood. Fremantle Media, the company behind "A. I.", has just announced the creation of a new show called, "American Idol Rewind" which gives viewers a never-before-seen look into "American Idol."

Cameras rolled as the former cast-offs rolled in to the party, which featured a live performance from Justin Guarini. The poofy haired singer serenaded the crowd with a few cuts from his soon-to-be-released album, "Stranger Things Have Happened."

So if you're anything like us and crave those pop-culture flashbacks, check out "American Idol Rewind" which airs in syndication starting September 30.

With "American Idol" auditions already underway for next season, TMZ is checking in with some of the winners and contestants from past seasons. While some are seeing continued success (Jennifer Hudson getting cast in "Dreamgirls" alongside Beyoncé for one) others seem to be hitting a few road bumps in their post-"Idol" careers.

Click here... it's not over yet