American Idol

American Idol first began in 2002 and 9 years later is still a hit show on television. Although it is still a hit, ratings have decreased over the last few years, which leaves the question, what is the cause of this?


When the show first began, Idol consisted of three judges including English music executive and television producer, Simon Cowell, multi-talented singer, dancer, and choreographer, Paula Abdul, and record producer/music manager Randy Jackson. Now, several years later, the show has experienced several changes from first losing Paula Abdul and adding on judges, comdedian/talk show host, Ellen DeGeneres and singer-songwriter, Kara Dioguardi, to then losing Ellen and Kara along with critical Idol judge, Simon Cowell. As we approach the middle of Season 10 with new judges, Aerosmith star, Steven Tyler, and singer, dancer, and actress, Jennifer Lopez having been added on to the judge panel, many are left wondering whether the judges are the main cause for the decrease in ratings Idol has received.

Although questioning began when Ellen and Kara joined back in 2009 and 2010, as many believed the two were two lenient, now with the crowd's favorite, blunt Simon having left the show, is it possible the entire judge panel is being too nice? Are they giving too much positive feedback instead of giving constructive criticism? This is not to say the current contestants aren't doing a good job, but even on past seasons when amazing talent was  heard, more criticism was involved. Sometimes that's what the audience/viewers wants to hear.


So, what do you think will happen next year? Will American Idol keep the same judges? Do they need to bring on a judge, like Simon, who will voice his opinion for the sake of creating a worth while American Idol? Or what will happen if the same panel remains next year?


Check out this article from msnbc.msn.com....   http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/42242417/ns/today-entertainment/