America Online Audiences Predict Bo Bice to Be the Next 'American Idol'

DULLES, Va.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--May 23, 2005--As the height of "Idol mania" captures America, Bo Bice will be the next "American Idol" according to AOL(R) audiences. Fans that can't get enough of the show are searching online for all things "American Idol," seeking the latest news, exclusive interviews, polls, images, and video clips on AOL(R) Search and AOL(R) Television. To date, AOL audiences have generated more than 30 million votes on AOL Television's annual "American Idol" poll and a dramatic increase in "American Idol"-related inquiries on AOL Search.

According to the AOL Search Index, Bo has been a solid AOL Search favorite over the course of the Idol season and as the season finale draws near, there has been a 200% increase in inquiries for the rocker Idol. Since April he has consistently been in the top two search positions. During the last four weeks inquiries for Bo have doubled and have placed him firmly at the top of the list of American Idol-related searches and the clear favorite of "American Idol" fans.

On AOL Television, the latest "American Idol" poll figures mirror AOL Search inquiry results, also favoring Bo as the winner with the majority (61%) of the votes, leaving Carrie Underwood far behind with the remaining 39%. Fans have accurately predicted the winner of the past three seasons of the show by voting in AOL's interactive poll available free on the Web at www.AOL.com/television and on the AOL(R) service.

AOL Television provides an online destination for "American Idol" fans featuring exclusive interviews with contestants and judges, the latest Idol news, polls, fan reactions and show highlights. Beginning on May 27, AOL Television's "TV's Top 5" franchise will also feature clips of the top five most memorable moments from season four of "American Idol."

About America Online, Inc.

America Online, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Time Warner Inc. Based in Dulles, Virginia, America Online is the world's leader in interactive services, Web brands, Internet technologies and e-commerce services.