Fox will bring American Idol back for an eighth season, it was announced yesterday at the network's upfront presentation. No surprise there. But Fox Chairman of Entertainment Peter Liguori acknowledged the show's dip in ratings and said there will be changes when it returns. What changes? He wasn't specific, though he said he's met with the show's producers and "everyone is really committed and excited." He said the judges will remain the same. "We love Paula," he said. "She's coming back."
Simon Cowell has repeatedly decried the contestants and the show indirectly for being boring and lacking personality. That's the challenge producers face as they address changes. How do they inject excitement into a show whose performers are as bland and unexciting as the songs they sing? It's unlikely that either of the show's finalists, Davids Archuleta and Cook, will light up the stage in next week's season ending blowout. Both have sounded the same week in and week out no matter their material, and neither has delivered any emotional punch. Too bad. What we really want is someone who's going to jump on the piano, sear the floorboards with their passion, and sing as if their life depended on it. Remember early performances by Axl Rose? Springsteen? Prince? So how do you fix Idol? Who have been Idol's most electrifying performers?
Comments (1)
I think Justin Guarini was the most exciting performer on American Idol.
He didn't look like anyone else. He didnt sound like anyone else.
He was a completly unique, one of a kind, fantastic entertainer with incredible charisma and star quality. And his exotic biracial looks were gorgeous!
Every week Justin was interesting and exciting and was an adorable, very genuine, goodnatured guy.
He danced. He sang his heart out and he was a master at nuance and emotional performance. Justin looked into that camera and captivated a nation that first season. He had the talent and charisma that just fascinated america and his Star Quality captured the audience and kept them interested in the show .
Justin is a PERFORMER, a quality that makes him stand out and he just brings the FUN to performing.
I think if A.I wants to shake things up they should have Justin host and perform on A.I next season. That would be so much fun to watch and I bet the A.I ratings would go up, the same as the TV Guide Network ratings shot up after Justin joined their network to do the Idol Wrap and Idol Tonight shows.
Bring Justin Back. Thats what Idol needs!
Posted by pat | May 18, 2008 10:18 PM
Posted on May 18, 2008 22:18