You Have To See Hasselhoff's 'Idol' 80's Tribute

Just when you think American Idol couldn't get any more ridiculous, something like this happens. It's 80's night on Idol and that means over-the-top decade-specific outfits, super-fun pop songs, and... David Hasselhoff? Yes, the Hoff graced the stage and it was one of the strangest — but strangely amazing — things the show has done in attempt to boost viewership. Was a visit from the Hoff relevant to the competition? Not at all. But it will definitely bring some much needed attention to the show.

It's no secret that Idol is hurting when it comes to ratings. They've done everything they can this season to change that — new format, new chairs, and fewer shows. But it seems they've also resorted to corny celeb appearances to encourage non-viewers to at least check out the show on YouTube — and today's will probably work. Hasselhoff took the Idol stage with the most ironic 80's medley possible — including "Walking On Sunshine," "Crazy Little Thing Called Love," and, of course, "Never Gonna Give You Up." It was quite possibly the most 80's thing that has happened since the 80's. Though the greatness of it was completely lost on the contestants themselves because most of them weren't even alive in the 80's — the audience ate it up and the Internet will too.

Hasselhoff is no stranger to the show — he's been a fan for years and took the Internet by storm when Taylor Hicks won in 2006. Either the producers remembered the brilliance of that moment or simply couldn't find a better 80's star to perform, the people of the interwebs will be all over this stunt in the morning. I have to admit, I actually loved it. I don't know if it was the Baywatch-like strip-tease or the 80's-ness of it all, but Hasselhoff's performance gave me hope in an otherwise dismal season of American Idol. Here's hoping he'll sign on as a judge in Season 15.

Image: YouTube/IdolxVoice