His rendition of The Temptations classic “Ain’t Too Proud to Beg” was unanimously panned by the judges during performance night of “American Idol Season 8” (airing on Q Channel 11) and he was in the bottom three last week, so when Michael Sarver was called during elimination night to do the all-or-nothing performance that may earn him the “Judges Save,” he didn’t seem so surprised.

End of the Road

The save, the one-time per season vote from the judges that can save the week’s lowest vote-getter from elimination, did not come and the 27-year-old Texan bid farewell to “American Idol Season 8.”

Last week was Motown week with the Top 10 paying tribute to “50 Years of Motown” by giving their renditions of classic Motown songs. Legendary singer Smokey Robinson played mentor as the finalists prepared for their songs for performance night.

A number of contestants did not live up to the expectations of the judges. Megan Joy’s fast and busy version “For Once in My Life” was labeled a “train wreck,” and Lil Rounds – the soul diva whom everyone expected would outshine the others – sang a coldly-received rendition of “Heatwave.”

Fortunately, Adam Lambert pulled off a surprisingly sweet and laid-back version of “The Tracks of My Tears,” written and originally sung by Smokey Robinson. It was a performance that earned a standing ovation from Smokey himself.

When Smokey Sings

During elimination night, legendary singer Smokey Robinson returned for a duet with singer-songwriter Joss Stone. AI winner Ruben Studdard also graced the Idol stage to perform his new hit single, “Together.” Stevie Wonder also joined in the celebration of all things Motown with a rousing medley of his hit songs.

And then the time came to find out who were in the dreaded bottom three. It was Scott McIntyre, Matt Giraud, and Michael.

Michael was not saved from elimination by the judges and thus became the fourth finalist taken out of Season 8. Following his departure, the contenders for the title “American Idol” are now down to nine: Kris Allen, Anoop Desai, Matt Giraud, Danny Gokey, Allison Iraheta, Megan Joy Corkrey, Adam Lambert, Scott McIntyre, and Lil Rounds.

What’s next on “American Idol Season 8?” This week, AI Season 7 champ David Cook returns to the Idol stage to perform his latest single, “Come Back to Me.” Pop sensation Lady Gaga will also take stage, singing her hit “Poker Face.”

Catch “American Idol” this week – Wednesday (6 p.m. with same day replay at 8 p.m.) and Thursday (6 p.m. with same day replay at 8:30 p.m.).