American Idol

What’s the Story?

Every season, the AMERICAN IDOL judges (Simon Cowell, Paula Abdul, Randy Jackson, and, as of 2009, Kara DioGuardi) and host Ryan Seacrest visit cities across the United States, judging thousands of hopeful singers. The program showcases performers at both ends of the spectrum: The very good is saved for the competition, while the very bad (packaged as clips from the contestant search) airs in the weeks prior to the "official" season. The top contestants (24 or 36 total, depending on the season) move on to the semifinals, which involve weekly singing competitions and call-in votes from viewers (this phase of the show is usually much less mean-spirited than the early episodes). As viewers find favorites among the contestants, the show inevitably gains ground, buzz, and headlines. It all culminates when the last contestant standing is named the next American Idol.

Is It Any Good?

The contestants' emotional, sometimes astounding performances grab those watching at home, who also feel involved in the process, since their votes determine the show's outcome. The judges' often over-the-top personalities have become infamous, as well as reality-show benchmarks. And while adults know that Simon's putting on a performance with his constant jabs, for kids, is this the standard of judging we want modeled? It's worth thinking about.

Many contestants are clearly looking for their moment in the spotlight. But plenty of the Idol wannabes are in it because they're truly talented singers who are dreaming of a big break. Many winners and runners-up have gone on to become true pop stars, proving that the show's formula -- as unforgiving as it can be -- really does work.