FOX’s New American Idol Show

I think I posted months back ranting against reality TV shows – but I’ve really fallen for Fox’s new American Idol. Modeled after a British series with the same format, Americans get a chance to pick one of their next up and coming music superstars. We’re really making a big deal out of it too. I’ve seen coverage on many of the major news stations, including CNN, speculating the next idol candidate to get the axe. Each show is reminiscent of a musical debate as each contestant vies to capture the American populace’s heart and mind – and vote. The following day we witness the culling of the pack and one singer’s concessional goodbye as they are dropped from the race. The show claims to be breaking records with every episode for the number of votes cast. This is a democratic country and we eat this stuff up! The irony doesn’t escape me, however, that we as a people have more input and excitement – and trust that our votes mean something to the outcome – in picking an American Singing Idol than we do an American President.