Common Sense Media Review
Long-running music competition is consistently entertaining.
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American Idol
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 37 parent reviews
Based on 94 kid reviews
Kids say the show offers a mix of emotional auditions and strong performances, but often feels overly scripted and can be inappropriate for younger viewers due to language and suggestive themes. While many longtime fans appreciate the talent on display, they lament the departure of past judges and express frustration with some voting outcomes.
- emotional auditions
- strong performances
- inappropriate language
- scripted feel
- judge departures
- mixed feelings
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
Every season, the AMERICAN IDOL judges -- including Simon Cowell (2002-2010), Paula Abdul (2002-2009), Randy Jackson, briefly Kara DioGuardi and Ellen DeGeneres, Jennifer Lopez, Steven Tyler, Katy Perry, Lionel Richie, Luke Tyler -- and host Ryan Seacrest visit cities across the United States, judging thousands of hopeful singers. Performers at both ends of the spectrum are showcased, but only the top ones make it to the main competition in order to sing their way to Idol stardom.
Is It Any Good?
The hugely popular series, which has been on the air for over 14 years on two different networks, has become a staple in reality competition entertainment. Some of judges' often over-the-top personalities have become infamous, as well as reality-show benchmarks. Meanwhile, 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.
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 also gone on to become true pop stars. Like it or not, American Idol's show formula -- as unforgiving as it can sometimes be-- really does work.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the audition process. Are the contestants who clearly have no singing ability auditioning for real or for fame? How can critiques be helpful to those who take the competition seriously? What's the difference between constructive and destructive criticism?
What is talent, and what talents do your kids feel they have? Does American Idol inspire them? If so, in what way?
How is the show making money by having consumer products obvious at every turn?
TV Details
- Premiere date : June 11, 2002
- Cast : Ryan Seacrest , Katy Perry , Lionel Richie , Luke Bryan
- Networks : Fox , ABC
- Genre : Reality TV
- TV rating :
- Award : Kids' Choice Award
- Last updated : October 9, 2025
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