Giraud says ‘Idol’ to have Jackson theme

American Idol finalist Matt Giraud says the U.S. TV show’s final 13 competitors will perform hits from pop star Michael Jackson.

Giraud said he was excited to perform a Jackson hit during next week’s show as the Idol judges continue to whittle down the Season 8 competitors, E! Online reported Friday.

I think that Michael Jackson theme night is coming up, so I’m excited about that, Giradu said Thursday. I love the Jackson 5 stuff too, but I’m not sure what song to sing yet.

E! Online said the Jackson-themed performances have been scheduled for Tuesday night. The theme night will be followed up Wednesday with performances from rapper Kanye West and former Idol winner Kelly Clarkson.

Meanwhile, FOX representatives confirmed Jackson will not be appearing on Idol, one of the network’s biggest hits.