The Australian public delivered a surprise verdict last night, sending home one of the season’s brightest stars, Ben McKenzie.

This week Ben delivered a great interpretation of Higher Ground, combining the Red Hot Chili Pepper’s attitude with Stevie Wonder’s soul. It may have failed to connect with some of the judges, but it was far from the worst performance of the night.

The stunned faces of the other Idol finalists, the judges, and the studio audience said it all. No one expected him to leave just yet.

I expect big things from the remaining competitors next week. After all, if Ben’s elimination has taught us nothing else, it’s that no one is safe.