When Simon Cowell announced last year that he was leaving “American Idol,” many were skeptical about the reality show surviving without his punchy personality. Season 10 is currently in its 12th week, and its ratings are better than ever. So what’s keeping 23 million people watching every week?
Steven Tyler and Jennifer Lopez have certainly brought appeal to the show, but only by way of star power. Tyler never fails to entertain with his eccentric mannerisms. Not only has he added a rock star feel to the show, he’s also contributed a creepy factor. The way he eyes contestants, like 15-year-old Lauren Alaina, can make a viewer want to switch over to NBC’s “Perfect Couples” instead.
In general, the female judges on “American Idol” have either been too passive or know-it-alls that come off sounding catty. Lopez, however, has taken on the role of “mommy” of the show. But in terms of presence, the only thing Lopez adds to “Idol” is a lot of bronzer and mascara.
Randy Jackson, who took Cowell’s seat, has been attempting to play the role of bad boy. So far, it has been the equivalent of the substitute teacher trying — and failing — to discipline a naughty class. “Yo, dawg, yo,” lives on.
Although the judges fail to be spectacular, they haven’t harmed the show. In fact, they’ve made room for the contestants to shine. They have always been the real heart of it, anyway.
Casey Abrams in particular, has garnered a large fan base, after almost going home in the 10th week. While attempting to save himself with “I Don’t Need No Doctor,” he was abruptly signaled to stop singing. “This is crazy wrong. We’ve made a decision here to keep you on,” Tyler said. Abrams was so shocked that he nearly collapsed.
The overwhelming support that Abrams received the following week shows that those 23 million people are glued to Fox on Thursday nights, because they connect with the contestants. It was never about Cowell’s constructive cruelty. When contestants are genuine and talented, the people will always be there to save them.