American Idol: An American Addiction

The popularity of such reality shows as American Idol have become outrageous. Reality TV is as popular as ever and doesn't seem to be slowing down at all. So, is this an epidemic in our country? Are we addicted to shows that portray "real life" actors as the stars? American Idol is one of the biggest hits when it comes to the popularity of reality TV. Where else can you see a relative nobody become a star over the course of a couple weeks? Nowhere! That is why this show is unique and successful. Let's take a look at some of the reasons why reality television, and shows like American Idol are drawing viewers by the millions.

American Idol is most intriguing of all the reality shows. They begin a season with a series of tryouts in various cities. The auditions that get aired can usually be categorized two ways: good and horrible! One of the biggest draws to these shows are the people that try out, and are bashed because their singing didn't make the cut. They have some of the weirdest, untalented people up there making fools of themselves on national television. Who wouldn't want to watch that? It makes for some great entertainment!

Then, you have the judges. Simon Cowell's "tell it like it is" approach is very controversial, thus attracting viewers. Phrases like, "absolutely horrible", "it was almost non-human" and "that might have been the worst auditions we've heard this season" are a few fan favorites. Simon Cowell has no problem telling these aspiring performers on American Idol that they are not talented, and will never be an American Idol. Paula Abdul and Randy Jackson usually take a more subtle approach. Paula has a hard time being brutally honest and coming off mean, while Randy usually ends up falling somewhere in between Paula Abdul and Simon Cowell.

Another draw to American Idol are the guest judges. These can vary from city to city, but usually they opt for someone that has some singing experience. Guest judges in the past have included such celebs as Barry Manilow, Jewel, Stevie Wonder and Gene Simmons. These judges can often attract a wide variety of views from their popularity with certain musical genres. Take Gene Simmons of the band KISS for instance. Would most KISS fans tune in to American Idol if Gene Simmons wasn't a guest judge? My guess would be no, but you never know. This is just another way that the producers at American Idol capture a diverse demographic of viewers, thus attracting advertising dollars. There are some very die-hard KISS fans out there that are undoubtedly watching each and every show that Simmons is on. This is just another example of how American Idol can suck American viewers in.

So is American Idol an epidemic in America? Well, that depends on the way you view reality shows in general. If you find yourself watching these types of shows religiously without taking time to view other, more educational shows, then maybe it is. It all comes down to the good ole' phrase, "Everything in Moderation". If American Idol is a guilty pleasure of yours, then that is good. I think every person is entitled to a "mindless" activity such as watching reality TV, as long as it is not at the expense of other aspects of our lives. If you are putting things off such as cleaning the house, calling your mother or paying your bills at the expense of American Idol, then you may have a problem. If not, then keep on watching! Just make sure things don't get out of hand, because I don't think there are any shrinks out there that specialize in an American Idol addition!