American Idol Chris Golightly, who had made it to the top 24, was disqualified after producers of the show discovered he was still linked to a contract with recording company, Dream Projects Entertainment.

2010 American Idol Season 9 OFFICIAL Top 24 Semifinalists FULL List (PHOTOS, VIDEO)

Chris signed this contract exactly one month before auditioning (watch video here) but guaranteed he would have no recording or management commitments by the time he got to the semifinals. Idol had no mercy and cut the “Orphan” out.

Idol hopeful strikes back. Chris claims he was released from his DPE contract before the “Idol” deadline and now begs for another chance on American Idol. Chris, who was replaced on Idol’s top 24 by Tim Urban, will hold a press conference at 9:30 am PST on Tuesday (February 23).