Casey Abrams Hospital Stay Extended; Will Chris Medina or Colton Dixon Replace Him?

Casey Abrams may not be able to continue his dream of becoming the next American Idol. The Top 24 contestant was rushed to the hospital Wednesday with severe stomach pains, and he remains hospitalized today, still in need of medical attention.

According to TMZ, Casey will receive a blood transfusion this morning, and for the Idol hopeful to continue in the competition, he needs to perform tonight in the show's taping of the top 12 males.

So, Casey could be forced to drop out today.

Sources connected with the show tell TMZ it's Casey's decision, and producers will allow him to rehearse with the band at 4:30 p.m. (PT) today if he can handle it, followed by a taping of the show.

Casey may even try to make it to the taping and then return to the hospital for further treatment.

Since Casey's hospitalization, the Twitterverse is buzzing with rumors that either Chris Medina and Colton Dixon, early favorites in the competition who many were sad see leave, will fill his spot.

Would you be sad to see Casey leave? Share your thoughts in the comments section and catch the clips below.

Jacee Badeaux, Brett Loewenstern are Colton Dixon are the final three to see the judges and hear their fate.

Chris Medina says goodbye, Jennifer Lopez weeps.