Another Season of American Idol..Sigh...Time For Round 8

Quite a few times over the past seasons I have told myself that I am done with watching American Idol. However, as Season 8 rolled around I found myself plopped down in front of the set tuning in. I guess when it's gone for months on end I end up missing it a bit, but yet when it starts I wonder why I am subjecting myself to torture.

When American Idol first started off many years ago, I absolutely loved the show. It was like nothing I had ever seen. Sure, there was "The Gong Show" and "You Could be a Star", but never before had I seen three witty judges traveling to different cities in hopes to find the next pop star. I was fascinated by the whacky individuals that actually thought they could sing, yet even more fascinated with Simon's no holds barred attitude when it came to critique. But the main source of joy for me was to watch unknown talent literally unfold in front of millions.

However, as Season 8 starts, I find myself flipping channels and yawning. The people that can't sing a lick and are just looking for their 15 minutes are just not that entertaining anymore. It's been done a few too many times already. Simon's sarcasm is the same ole' yet different day thing. At this point, I've heard the guy tell at least a hundred people that they are the worst he has ever seen. Paula, once the nice judge, has turned to the nasty side as well. Not only has she demanded a $10 million dollar salary to stay on, but her new found rudeness to contestants makes it almost impossible to watch. Then there is the new judge, Kara. She seems nice enough, and obviously has no problem trying to showcase her singing talent as well, but there just isn't enough substance there to make the show more interesting. Sure, they did need something new, but this just isn't it. Randy, well, he's still Randy.

I don't see American Idol lasting for too many more seasons. However, I do see the producers milking it for everything it's worth. I have this feeling even the most loyal of fans are going to get tired of the same rehashed garbage season after season. Yet, even though it is boring, lame, repetitive, and semi trashy, I will still probably end up watching. Why? Because I love seeing new talent get their shot into stardom. Artists struggle enough as is, so if there is one thing that American Idol does right, it's that it gives hopefuls a chance in a lifetime.