Millions of Americans made a choice on Tuesday evening between a fresh-faced rising star who appeals to young voters and a more experienced candidate whose support is concentrated among older people.

It sounds like Barack Obama versus Hillary Clinton. But while the Democratic rivals fought themselves to a score draw in the latest round of primary elections, many Americans were focused on the clash between teen heart-throb David Archuleta and gritty rocker David Cook in the final of American Idol, the popular TV talent contest.