Sunday, May 21, 2006

After last night's elimination of Elliott Yamin, the fifth edition of
American Idol has reached the grand finale with two remaining contestants
vying for a major recording contract and the adoration of millions. While
the hit reality series has drawn nearly 30 million viewers each week it's
also become the most popular entertainment event for wagering with online
bettors. The first company to offer betting on the country's largest talent
search, PinnacleSports.com has released updated odds on who'll be named the
next American Idol. The largest sports betting site on the Internet,
PinnacleSports.com has received an exceptional amount of wagers on American
Idol and is now accepting individual bets of up to $10,000 on who'll win the
reality show. Throughout the series duration, support continuously grew for
Taylor Hicks and the grey-haired vocalist is now an overwhelming favorite to
become the next American Idol at 1/2 odds (i.e., win $1 for every $2 bet).
As the series heads into its final week, PinnacleSports.com lists Katharine
McPhee as a 9/5 underdog to be crowned the next pop superstar.

"We've seen support for Taylor Hicks really increase since last week's
surprising elimination of previous favorite Chris Daughtry," said Simon
Noble of PinnacleSports.com. "Although Katharine has been one of the
favorites since the show's onset, Taylor's consistent performances and stage
presence appears to have won the hearts of voters as well as Simon Cowell
and company. Bettors at Pinnacle Sports certainly think that there won't be
any surprises next week when Ryan Seacrest unveils the next American Idol."

Current Odds: *All Odds Subject To Change*

Odds To Win American Idol

Taylor Hicks 1/2

Katharine McPhee 9/5

PinnacleSports.com will accept wagers on American Idol until the winner is
announced on the May 24th series finale.

About PinnacleSports.com

PinnacleSports.com is the Internet's largest sports betting site serving
customers in more than 80 countries worldwide. Founded in 1998,
PinnacleSports.com was the first sports book to introduce reduced margin
wagering, using a -105 pricing model that gives bettors up to 50% better
value on wagers than traditional bookmakers.