Preview of the New American Idol Season

The hit TV show American Idol has already been through many changes over the years. We have seen a plethora of new contestants and some great talent. Last year brought us new Idol judge Kara DioGuardi a move that had many questioning whether she was there to replace Paula Abdul. Sure enough this year we are going to see American Idol without Paula Abdul and instead in her place the funny Ellen Degeneres, according to People Magazine. But while Ellen is very charming will America embrace her as they did Paula? And what is to come of Simon Cowell who has repeatedly said he would not want to do the show without Paula. Rumors are already swirling about that this will be his last season. Like many, I have to question that these moves were good for American Idol. While I continue to watch these past couple of seasons seemed to be lacking something

Even with her sometimes loopy antics and questioning behavior, I am a Paula Abdul fan. I think she is the perfect balance between Randy and Simon and even with Kara in the mix she brought a softness to the show. I loved her and Simon's chemistry and have to admit that was one of the key reasons I kept watching.

While I truly like Ellen Degeneres, I just don't see her being an appropriate replacement. Paula had a stronger musical background and while she may have seemed in another world, sometimes she did have a knack for knowing when she was looking at someone who was truly talented or just lucky. I think a better replacement would be someone with more experience in music such as the singer Jewel who has been a guest judge on the show in the past. Besides being more musically inclined, she also possesses the same sort of softness that Paula had brought to the show. I think with their slow decline in ratings over the past two years, American Idol would have fared better had they just negotiated with Paula and had her stay on the show.

As far if Simon Cowell will remain on the show, I honestly do not see him staying for much longer. As stated above, he has repeatedly mentioned that he never wanted to do the show without Paula Abdul. While they may bicker on the show you can see he has a general fondness for her and I think a certain loyalty. I also think he seems to be getting bored with the show and frustrated. On numerous occasions he has appeared aggravated at some of the contestants who make it through whom really do not have the sort of talent you would expect from American Idol. I think America is looking at its last season with him there.

When it comes to the overall future for American Idol, I sadly think that we are looking at their last season. They may try to make it for one or two more but if in fact Simon does choose to leave I think people will quickly lose interest as they already seem to be.

Sources cited: Myself and People magazine.