'American Idol' backstage interviews - latimes.com

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<I>By Richard Rushfield, Los Angeles Times staff writer</I>

American Idol

( Jason Merritt / Getty Images )

By Richard Rushfield, Los Angeles Times staff writer

Last week, immediately after the historic save of Matt Giraud, third from left, the Top 7 convened backstage for a celebratory dinner. We joined them and, over pizza, talked with them about life and afterlife in the mansion, the hardships of the grueling "Idol" schedule and how their friendship has sustained them.

Following are some highlights from the conversation. Read the complete story.

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