American Idol: Judges Controversy?

It seems that in each of the past seven seasons of "American Idol" there has some sort of controversy surrounding judge Paula Abdul; however, it usually happens later in the season. This year the alleged controversy has started even before the final 12 are even chosen.

Among the changes made for season 8 is the addition of a new judge. There are now two men and two women with the addition of songwriter and producer Kara DioGuardi.

The possible controversy? Paula Abdul made comments alleging that a four judge panel did not work. While no names were mentioned, DioGuardi felt the comment were made toward her. DioGuardi said that she was disappointed and hurt that Abdul had not come to DioGuardi personally. Meanwhile, Abdul stated that the comments were not made at the new judge but toward the "mentor/guest judges" who have appeared on the show in seasons past.

In many of the past seasons Abdul and her judging skills have come into question. In past seasons Abdul has appeared to be incoherent on camera and appearing to babble when talking to the contestants. And there have been questions of whether she was drinking or on some kind of medication that made her appear incapacitated. So far this season Abdul appears to be more coherent and on task. With the addition of the new judge, Paula Abdul is no longer the only female judge; she has some competition. One might begin to wonder whether Abdul actually feels that a fourth judge - which is used quite successfully in other Idol programs (Canadian Idol for one) - is really necessary and working or does Abdul feel threatened by the new member of the judging panel?

Over the years Paula Abdul and judge Simon Cowell have had their share of on camera spats. During the results show on February 26, new judge Kara DioGuardi had a bit of a spat with Simon and finally asked Cowell whether he ever shut up. Simon Cowell, who often tells it like it is with no qualms, is often involved in a spat of some sort with either a contestant or another member of the "American Idol" cast, so it would stand to reason that he would have words with the new judge. While there are some watchers of the show who don't like Simon and his remarks, there are just as many who watch for that very same reason. Many of the reality shows popular with viewers involve controversy and aggressive discussions and "American Idol" is no different.