Casey James spent Thursday night back home. That doesn’t mean he’s getting much rest.

James is one of three finalists for the latest edition of American Idol. He returned to north Texas last night to prepare for the “homecoming” segment of the popular series.

KDFW-TV, the Dallas Fox-owned station, is hosting the blond hearthrob on its morning news program from 7-8am.  James then has several personal appearances scheduled, before heading to Fort Worth. This afternoon, he will be the star of a welcome home parade in the stockyards. He will also perform for his fans in a mini-concert.

After thousands of singers from across the country tried and failed in the past year, James is now one of only three performers still with a chance to be the next American Idol. If he wins, he would become the second Texas native with the title.  Season one winner Kelly Clarkson was from Burleson.