For Susan Boyle, 2d-place finish

But Susan Boyle's reality show journey ended yesterday with a second-place finish in the finals of "Britain's Got Talent." Instead of the 48-year-old Internet sensation, an exuberant dance troupe called "Diversity" took the $159,000 prize.

Boyle had paced around the stage as the hosts named the top three of the 10 final acts, and looked almost relieved when her name was called as runner-up.

"The best people won," Boyle said. "They're very entertaining. Lads, I wish you all the best."

Boyle then curtsied several times to the audience, gave them her signature shimmy, and strolled offstage.

It had been a tumultuous week for Boyle, a woman previously unused to the limelight. She lost her cool during a confrontation with two reporters, and the police intervened.

But when she stepped into the spotlight yesterday, Boyle seemed more polished - and animated - than in previous appearances. She chose to go back to the song that rocketed her into the spotlight: "I Dreamed a Dream," from "Les Miserables."