MUMBAI: Star World will telecast the performance finale of American Idol on 24 May at 8 pm, while the grand finale will be aired live on 25 May 2006 at 9 am.

Finally, after months of gruelling competition, millions of votes and many favourites being knocked out, the fight is now between Taylor Hicks and Katharine McPhee. As McPhee, a 21 year old born and raised in Los Angeles and Hicks, a 29 year old from Alabama battle it out, America will make the final call.

No doubt the judges have their preferences but it's no longer in their hands. The performance of the two finalists will determine who takes away the crown and an opportunity to work with some of the best music producers in the industry.

Currently in its fifth season, it was named the highest-rated show in the history of American Idol. It also seems to have acquired an international appeal and fans anxiously await the announcement of America's favourite, the release adds.

A two hour special of the finale will be telecast live on 25 May at 9 am, with a prime time repeat at 8 pm. Repeats of this show will also be aired on 26 May at 1:30 am and10 am, respectively.