Steve Beguhn's stay in Hollywood didn't last long.

The melodic Wisconsin CPA passed his American Idol audition in Milwaukee in January, but he was one of many contestants who were eliminated at the start of Hollywood Week. A record 327 hopefuls made the trip to California, but most of them — including Beguhn — went home early.

Even in defeat, though, he earned more attention that some of those who moved on. Here's Suite101.com writer Paul Brown's take:

“The producers seemed more interested in focusing on Steve Beguhn, who didn’t make it through but had a catchier backstory as an accountant who also sings. His departure was the cue for another montage of tearful contestants on the way out, though we didn’t see any of their performances.”

Looks like he'll have to be content with a life of auditing.

Here's a look back at Steve's brush with fame.

• Watch Steve's Milwaukee audition.
• Watch Steve's “Road to Hollywood” video on AmericanIdol.com.
• Visit Steve's Facebook fan page.

And Steve, thanks. You gave us all a brief thrill … and you saved us from having to watch the rest of Season 10.