Idol Chatter & Voice Views

The above photo of Idol’s final 12 has a noticeable omission.

Casey Abrams, an early favorite in season 10, wasn’t at the photo shoot because he was hospitalized for the second time since the competition began and missed Thursday’s results show.

So Pia Toscano held up a likeness of Casey’s head.

Even in the hospital, Casey maintains his sense of humor.

After the show, he sent this tweet to departed contestant Ashthon Jones:  “I love you girl. I know for a fact we will meet up again in the near future. And your hair better be even bigger next time.”

As for himself, Casey tweeted that he’s doing better.

“Hey guys, thanks for the well wishes, I got some nice fresh blood in me and feeling better. People at Idol & Cedars are treatin’ me real good.”

Among other recent tweets …

Casey sent one to Crystal Bowersox, who had her own brush with hospitalization during season nine. It reads: “My health is always first, but this is my dream, I’m going to keep fighting to stay in.”

And, to his fans, about 2 p.m. today: “By the way, I just realized… I’m in the top 12! Thanks for voting me into the competition everyone. I owe all of you a big bear hug.”

According to various reports I’ve read, the show is declining to comment further on Casey’s health.

But one would think there’s a little concern. Casey was also hospitalized right before last week’s semifinal show.

The Hollywood Reporter says Casey is suffering from “ulcerative colitis, an inflammatory bowel disease which affects the lining of the large intestine.”