Abdul (who is in Peachtree City today) coming back? Fox says no. A fourth judge? Sounds like it
Fox Entertainment Chairman Peter Rice said today that Paula Abdul is NOT coming back for sure. Here’s how AP wrote it:
Rice told the Television Critics Association on Thursday that the network made an offer it considered very fair to Abdul, but she decided not to return as a judge on the hit singing contest.
But for now, guests judges will fill in, including “I Kissed a Girl” singer Katy Perry and “Posh Spice” Victoria Beckham. This means the execs seem fixated on four judges. Blech.
The season nine audition rounds featuring the judges begin taping tomorrow.
From USA Today:
“Our intention is to have guest judges be female pop stars, female performers, female artists, and between now and January we will come up with a permanent solution on what we will do…and a replacement for Paula.”
Abdul is actually in Peachtree City today shooting a second episode of “Drop Dead Diva” on Lifetime. Her first guest role, playing a farcical dream judge, was taped a month ago and will air in September. She is reprising that role for the season finale in October. (Above is an AP photo from her first stint.)
The Lifetime publicist said Abdul requested a “closed set,” which means no media. That means if I drove down there now, I’d have no luck getting in. Oh, well.
Did you want a lot of reaction about Abdul’s departure – including me? USA Today has quotes from the likes of me, Chris Sligh, MJ, Phil Stacey and Jordin Sparks.
• “(Idol) might be duller; I don’t know about being nastier. Simon’s rapport with her was fun. Do you remember that time he was drawing on her with crayon? Sometimes their relationship was childish; you’d see him whispering in her ear during a performance. But she kept Simon engaged. Is he going to look bored all the time now?” — Rodney Ho, Atlanta Journal-Constitution blogger
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116 comments Add your comment
Rickster
August 6th, 2009
2:37 pm
Way to go Rodney!
warren stephens
August 6th, 2009
2:58 pm
Fox TV has mad so much money of the fans of this show. Its time to step
up to plate and PAY UP….. If the Boyz are getting big contracts so should the LADY of your money making show.
Shame on You Fox TV…… I’m one of 13 people that will no longer tune-in without Paula.
I think you should give her what she wants PLUS more now….
Warren
Deirdre
August 6th, 2009
3:11 pm
Great comment Rodney. Simon will miss Paula more than we will or the contestants will. Just let him try to poke Kara in the ribs are whisper stuff to Posh while she’s trying to talk and he could end up with a fat lip.
Deirdre
August 6th, 2009
3:12 pm
“or whisper” oops!
Deirdre
August 6th, 2009
3:13 pm
Where the heck is JT today…he would have had some fun on the previous thread.
Allenism
August 6th, 2009
3:14 pm
I was the one who wished a panel of new judges for the coming Am Idol. Paula is gone now. Will Simon go too?
Simon was the one who instructed audience to vote for his fave contestant (cough AL cough) this year. It is totally un-professional to me. He predicted David Arch to win 2008 (Wong, David Cook got the Title). His fave Susan Boyle (UK talent show) failed to get the crown also. Did audience listen to his judgment? Will Simon comes back to AI? I wait for the news. Thanks Rodney
Deirdre
August 6th, 2009
3:39 pm
Allenism…Simon has already signed his contract for this year….so, yes, he will be back.
Rickster
August 6th, 2009
3:39 pm
By the way… It’s Rodney’s fault. Yesterday (at 7:59 AM) he wrote: “Do you think “Idol” might hire a fourth judge to replace Abdul? Given how soon they have to start auditions (this Thursday), I doubt it.”
Thanks for jinxing us Rodney! (j/k)
Deirdre
August 6th, 2009
4:10 pm
Apparently not everyone on the Idol staff is sorry to see Paula go. This is from the gossip guy at the Chicago Sun Times via mj:
‘‘Can’t you hear our celebration?’’ said a veteran key ‘‘Idol’’ staff member in a phone chat late Wednesday. ‘‘We broke out the good champagne tonight.’’
Indeed, I could hear the clinking of glasses and a few scattered cheers in the background at an impromptu party a number of ‘‘American Idol’’ staff members put together after learning the news.
My first source repeated something Wednesday that she has told me on numerous occasions during the past couple of years: ‘‘We are so tired of Paula’s tantrums, her constant diva behavior. … She took the concept of ‘difficult’ to a whole new level. Thank God she’s gone.’’
I also learned independently the ‘‘American Idol’’ producers believe the show will be fine — once again with three judges, especially with Kara DioGuardi re-signed. However, if they feel a fourth judge is again needed, they reportedly have reached out quietly to a number of veteran singers — who could possibly step into the old Abdul slot. Among names mentioned are Diana Ross and Natalie Cole.
Highlander
August 6th, 2009
4:12 pm
First off, Rodney, thanks for the updates and new threads! Second, please block our animal impersonators and double(triple)-dippers! Please, please, please! I for one am getting tired of their tedious, repetitive, unintelligent comments. I’m sure I’m not alone in that.
I’d also like to comment on the idea being batted around by some that Paula has done this because she thinks she hasn’t been shown the respect she deserves by Idol.
If so, then someone should remind her that respect is earned, not bought. Exactly how has she really earned respect the past few seasons. By offering unintelligible critiques? By acting so loopy that at times she unintentionally became the comic relief on the show?
Sorry, AI is not the Supreme Court. Just because she was there at the beginning doesn’t mean she had a lifetime appointment. Anyone who seriously thinks she deserves more than a 30% raise (!) must be on the same medication she is.
Highlander
August 6th, 2009
4:16 pm
Sorry for the rant. I just believe that attributes like respect and integrity are bandied about much too easily in this day and age.
kelly&carriefan
August 6th, 2009
4:19 pm
I’m lurking today, but had to say “Way to go, Rodney…” I saw your quote, Mr. Expert.
It definitely will be interesting to see how he interacts with Kara, I don’t see her as easily distractable. Speaking of, a blonde Kat? Hmm, not too shabby…. Where IS JT?
Paul R. Nelson
August 6th, 2009
4:21 pm
Highlander, you sound like a girlie man that has issues. Are you still afraid of the dark and/or do loud noises frighten you. American Idol is a dumb show and only dumb people watch. Who cares about some pill popper like Abdul anyway. Pill popping coolness ended with MJ’s death. Abdul and Idol stink!!
I’m Paul R. Nelson and I approve of this message.
WatchingIdol
August 6th, 2009
4:22 pm
Highlander – I am not saying Paula earned any respect. That’s between her and the powers-that-be at AI and between her and each viewer. My point is if she felt she wasn’t getting the respect she thought she deserved than good for her that she is able to move on.
Despite the play-by-play in the press, Paula has not trashed AI, nor has the show trashed her. There needn’t be animosity in every disagreement. The two sides each think the collaboration is no longer mutually beneficial, let them say thank-you for the past and let’s each move on to a better future.
She thinks she deserves the raise. The bosses think she doesn’t. They each do what they think is best based upon that without any hysterics. Maybe politicians could learn from this!
I do think the lack of raise equal to Seacrest of Cowell shows the producers don’t think her contribution is as significant. They are entitled to think that. She is entitled to disagree and leave. Nobody can say with any certainty which side is right. If the show starts losing viewers, those that agree with Abdul will say her leaving is the reason. Those that disagree will say it’s natural for a show that age.
Bottom line is, so far, this disagreement has been handled well by both sides.
Shannon, M.Div.
August 6th, 2009
4:32 pm
I don’t think the gender issue is completely ignorable, though. Fact is, a woman was making much less than the men doing comparable work… and when she wanted a significant raise to bring her payscale in line with the men’s, they let her go. This is a pretty familiar dance tune to some of us. You can argue about personalities and contributions… but when you strip it down to the essentials, it’s a pay dispute. When Idol started, Paula was the most well-known name of them all. Her pay did not keep pace. Shame on Fox (gee, there’s a surprise).
JTesla
August 6th, 2009
4:33 pm
Deirdre, I’m AWOL at the beach. If I have time I’ll hit the old thread.
Thanks Rodney, but 4 judges? Blech, worst idea ever just got worse with the guest judge conept.
linny ,,,=^..^=,,,
August 6th, 2009
4:40 pm
ROdney, can you find out who we need to write to in order to get some REAL attention on the facts that (1) it’s about the CONTESTANTS stupid, (2) 4 Judges SUX and (3) get Randy some elocution education – QUICK!
Deirdre
August 6th, 2009
4:44 pm
Shannon…I don’t think Randy makes anymore money than Paula so where does that sit in the gender issue?
linny…write to FOX and write to Idol. I’m going to, too!
Deirdre
August 6th, 2009
4:47 pm
And again with the gender issue. Athletes on a team make different amounts of money…it usually depends on their contributions, longevity and their agents. Actors in movies and tv shows make different amounts of money…for mostly the same reasons. Teachers make different amounts of money for doing the same job. That depends on longevity.
I don’t think Paula’s gender has ANYTHING to do with how much she makes.
linny ,,,=^..^=,,,
August 6th, 2009
4:52 pm
any anyone who complains about making a few measely millions for sitting around acting goofy and telling people they’re cute or pretty or special and what they wear is pretty or cute or special and… well.. let’s just say that they have NO room to complain.
And i’ve set out before why i feel Ryan’s job is a LOT harder than any of the judges’ job — and the only reason Simon gets so much is he’s the “mouth” — they had to make it worth his while to “import” him to do the show on a regular basis, he WAS and IS busy with quite a handful of other projects whereas Paula makes…jewelry? and as far as i can tell, randy just “used to work with” a bunch of folks
WatchingIdol
August 6th, 2009
4:53 pm
Deirdre -
Randy was not up for contract renewal this year, but Paula, Simon and Seacrest were up for renewal. The bosses at AI apparently feel that Paula is not as important as Simon and Seacrest, but you’ve got to remember, these are the same people that thought it would be a Danny-Adam fight to the finish this year, so you’ve got to question how much they have their finger on the pulse of what America is thinking.
I don’t want to think the fact that she is a woman had anything to do with their reasoning, but we will never know for sure.
linny ,,,=^..^=,,,
August 6th, 2009
5:01 pm
following is a copy of my email to FOX; I’ll be composing a much stronger letter to the producers of American Idol in days to come… in case anyone cares (AND if you DON’T care, well…. duh! don’t read it!)
DEAR FOX:
Please. Please. Please. I’m begging you — tell the producers of American Idol to take the show back to the contestants. The FOUR judge format was cumbersome, caused time overflow every week, and was not in the least bit entertaining, education, productive, fruitful, or beneficial to ANYone except the four judges’ paychecks.
American Idol is supposed to be about the people who come to sing — during auditions is fun to have interaction with the judges, to even have guest judges (additional to the core judges) but…. BUT… having said that, once the public voting begins, those people sitting in those chairs who get to make comments
ARE NO LONGER “JUDGES” — they have become “COMMENTATORS” only. Spending half the show listening to Randy “boo” at Simon, or anyone pick on each other, or whatever, is counterproductive to the whole purpose of the show — SHOWCASING TALENT for america to vote on.
Please, I beg you — take the show back to it’s core purpose — competition by talented young people for a prize and hopefully some or all will also achieve fame and fortune due to the opportunity given to them to have national exposure of… are you ready for this … National Exposure of THEIR TALENT! What a concept!
Please — put some pressure on the producers to go back to the basic premise and get away from the psychodrama of too many judges making too much noise.
Thank you for your attention.
Linda …
Deirdre
August 6th, 2009
5:03 pm
I don’t think Paula is as important as Ryan or Simon either. And Simon was paid way more than the other judges BEFORE this recent contract change. I think Paula adds something to the show but I don’t think what she adds is a necessary element. If the show falters this year, it won’t be, as some have suggested, because Paula is gone. It will be because the show started a downward trend two years ago and that trend will continue with or without Paula. Nine years is a LONG time for a show to survive.
Mercedes S.
August 6th, 2009
6:50 pm
John Hughes, 59, died of a heart attack as he was taking a morning walk in Manhattan. He was my 80s at the movies!! At least the funny 80’s …
Highlander
August 6th, 2009
7:29 pm
“Highlander, you sound like a girlie man that has issues. Are you still afraid of the dark and/or do loud noises frighten you. American Idol is a dumb show and only dumb people watch.” – Paul R. Nelson, 4:21pm
Gee, Paul, why don’t you just say something about my mama?!
I only wonder why someone with your amazing intellect is wasting so much time writing on a blog about a dumb show watched by dumb people. (And I know it’s taking you a LOT of time because I’ve seen people who can only type with one finger at a time before. It’s referred to as ‘hunt & peck’ typing.)
Being such a nice guy, Paul, I’ll be happy to help by offering you another finger. Can you guess which one??
Mercedes S.
August 6th, 2009
7:57 pm
Linda/Linny, well put!
linny@home
August 6th, 2009
10:46 pm
thanks ‘cedes, LOL. I’m going to compose a much more detailed and thoughtful letter to the American Idol people. I want to take some time, at least a day or two, to put my thoughts together. I cannot believe that we here on Rodney’s blog are the only ones who feel the way we do about the 4-judge format, and why, WHY in the world would they go back to it now that they have the perfect opportunity WITHOUT ADMITTING THEY WERE WRONG to just quietly revert to 3 judges. Judges. Commentators. They are no longer judges once WE start voting. It really gets in my craw every time we and anyone else refers to them as JUDGES. It’s not fair, it puts undue and unwarranted credence on their comments to call them judges after that point. Well. More when I write my letter, LOL!
HARRIETT SAYS HELLO ALL! She’s having a wonderful time!
And SYTYCD got it wrong this season. Jannine was NOT the best dancer. She was MAYBE the best dancer (but not in my opinion) Wednesday night ONLY — Brandon was the best all season. But what can i say, the public is fickle!!!
JTesla
August 6th, 2009
11:32 pm
Rodney: I just saw on tv where Amanda Overmeyer of American Idol fame is touring to support her new album. So why are you covering all this trivial judge stuff and not going after the big Idol news?:)
BTW it looks like I’m missing the best blogging of the off season. Way to keep it real people, you know who you are.
nes
August 7th, 2009
12:37 am
Told you all. 4,4,4 as Moses Malone said.
wreckedpizza
August 7th, 2009
1:03 am
“Being such a nice guy, Paul, I’ll be happy to help by offering you another finger. Can you guess which one??”
Thanks for that one, Highlander. My fave line of the day and the intended target is well-deserving of it. Man, this blog has gone crazy lately! I may need to step away and come back when the show begins again to see if things have improved…I mean, IMHO one of the dumbest, boring things there is today is Major League Baseball. I haven’t watched since the strike of 1994 wiped out the World Series. However, you won’t find me on the baseball blogs talking about my dislike for it. What’s the point??? MLB and its fans don’t give a hoot if I like it or not, y’know.
And my question of the day/night: whereintheheck is neg???
Highlander
August 7th, 2009
7:01 am
Thanks, WP. And I was thinking the exact same thing regarding Neg. He did drop in for one comment either one or two threads ago (if it was truly Neg – it’s hard to tell with some of the eejits we’ve had lately.)
I, for one, miss Neg’s unique wit and often off-kilter outlook on things! Maybe he’s just waiting for the judges story to really heat up.
Mrs. Neg, can Neg come out and play?
Highlander
August 7th, 2009
7:22 am
I think the Paula fans who are attributing her salary offer (lower than Ryan’s and Simon’s) as a gender issue are grasping at mighty thin straws in an attempt to justify her refusal of a 30% (!!) raise.
Deirdre hit it just right. One, she’s not worth the same as Ryan (due to the different and greater role he has) and not even close to what Simon is worth (due to his drawing power). Second, she was being offered much more than Randy is currently under contract for, so THAT blows the gender issue right out of the water.
I view this as one of those times where someone was actually being offered what the employer thought was THEIR worth, which is how it should be.
BTW, when Randy’s contract IS up, I think he should get the same kind of offer they tendered to Paula. He doesn’t deserve “Ryan money” either. The difference is, I think he’ll realize it’s still the sweetest gig(in terms of monetary compensation) he could ever hope for and take it!
Deirdre
August 7th, 2009
7:28 am
Morning!
Neg doesn’t hang around much in the off-season. Just an occasional drive-by Negism to brighten our day.
JT, are you finished lying on the beach or will you be doing that for a couple more days? You’ve missed an exceptionally busy week for the off-season. I imagine things will start to slow down today.
Heather MacDonald
August 7th, 2009
7:41 am
It’s a bit like someone let a child with a “See and Say” toy loose on us, now that I think of it!
Heather MacDonald
August 7th, 2009
7:46 am
Apparently, my comment before that one was eaten. Darn it! I’ll try again here. Highlander, I nearly spit my drink onto my desk when I read your reply to Paul. Thanks for the laugh! I agree that Randy should be offered no better a deal than was offered to Paula. All he knows how to do is say “dawg” and throw up stupid signs while booing Simon. I feel his time of relevancy has passed. It would be nice to be rid of him come negotiation time. Maybe we can suggest Paula’s new manager for him?
Pity that Rodney can’t seem to control the animal noise posters in here.
Deirdre
August 7th, 2009
8:05 am
I agree, Heather although Rodney is a hard working journalist before he is a blogger so, once he’s added a new thread, he often has no time to moderate the blog. Unless we send him a specific complaint, he may not know what’s going on. Also, we’ve discovered that the handy-dandy “Report this comment” actually works sometimes.
These trouble makers are relatively harmless…mostly childish stuff that is pretty easily ignored. We’ve had MUCH worse on here. Sometimes the trouble makers are merely toys with which we “cat-lovers” can play.
sparkie martin
August 7th, 2009
8:37 am
pretty girls come a dime a dozen..paula is a great dancer..and a fairly decent singer..if she had a manager that was hungry she would have settled for 5mm instead of trying to get.Elephant Money” out the box..there are so..so many choices for that slot that i can list 50 recording artist and actors..and models and many with face reconiznation that could have paulas seat in a heartbeat…her current manager rolled the dice ..thinking that she was marquee enough to get “Elephant Money’ and now he and she eat “Dunk’ no commission to him..and no job for her..and American Idol continues to be top shelf..
Rickster
August 7th, 2009
9:25 am
American Idol auditions we’d love to have seen. John Bon Jovi
Randy: “It’s a’right. Not bad, dawg.”
Kara: “Love the hair!”
Paula: “Nice jeans!!”
Simon: “You’re ‘living on a prayer’ if you think you can win this competition.”
Brique
August 7th, 2009
10:17 am
…And people are in our life for a season…her season is over by her own choice. She decided to go. Funny how ego makes us make the most dumb decisions. Good job for 8 seasons Paula. Kara is on the scene! GO KARA GO cause I love you! You are so real!!!
JTesla
August 7th, 2009
11:44 am
Deirdre, I’m out until Sunday.
I’m actually looking forward to Paula getting a gig that involves her true passion… Dancing.
Everyone, remember if you don’t like trolls, don’t feed them.
I'm better than you
August 7th, 2009
11:57 am
Please punch a liberal in the face today. It will make you feel so good. It is like making fun of American Idol fans – it really brightens your day.
JTesla, how many cats do you have? I’m guessing 9.
Rickster
August 7th, 2009
12:40 pm
I was planning to take my wife out to Red Lobster tonight for our (11th) anniversary for some shrimp. But with all the bottom feeders that have been trolling around the last few days… now I’m not so sure.
JTesla
August 7th, 2009
12:47 pm
I actually have 19 cats, each named after a Disney character. I now need 8 more to name after Idol winners… Then maybe judges yeeehaw!
Rickster
August 7th, 2009
12:48 pm
American Idol auditions we’d love to have seen: Clarence “Frogman” Carter:
Randy: “Frog – I mean ‘dawg. Not happening for me. Sorry.”
Kara: “Yeah.. I have to agree with Randy.”
Paula: “That was a wonderful frog impression.”
Simon: “Hop on out of here froggie.”
Rickster
August 7th, 2009
1:03 pm
JT… Just my opinion, but Amanda was one of the worst finalist in recent years. She was a one-trick pony/rocker chick.
Alison Iraheta could blow her away just by singing the scales!
Highlander
August 7th, 2009
1:03 pm
Tried to post this earlier but pacman must have got it:
Congratulations, Rickster, on your 11th anniversary!
I know you won’t really allow the trolls to alter your celebration plans. After all, they can’t hide behind their keyboards out in public!
Highlander
August 7th, 2009
1:07 pm
Well, JT, that’s a point we disagree on:
All our cats are named after Looney Tunes characters!
Rickster
August 7th, 2009
1:07 pm
Thanks for the congrats, Highlander. I wasn’t going to change my plans… but possibly my menu selection. But I’m worried that some trolls have laptops!
But I’m feeling pretty good because I got a comment from Heywood unpublished!
Heather MacDonald
August 7th, 2009
1:08 pm
Rickster, Happy anniversary!!
Heather MacDonald
August 7th, 2009
1:14 pm
American Idol auditions we’d love to have seen: Mariah Carey
Randy: “Dawg, for me, for you..I think that song was just too big for you. I mean, I worked with Whitney Houston and she was really great! There’s no way you can sing THAT well.”
Kara: “I LOVE your shoes! I had a pair like that when we went to Studio 59. What? Oh, the singing? It was good.”
Paula: “Wow… I love your high notes. They were a little pitchy and they hurt my doggie’s ears, but that was really great. I hope that someday everyone sees the glittering rainbows of your soul.”
Simon: “Randy, really. No one cares that you worked with Whitney Houston. And Paula, her glitter…. nevermind. This girl can sing, and I’m voting to put her through, although I think she is likely to have a breakdown soon.”
Rickster
August 7th, 2009
1:14 pm
Thanks, Heather.
Rickster
August 7th, 2009
1:22 pm
Good one Heather!! Way to go!
Deirdre
August 7th, 2009
1:23 pm
Been out buying food. My in-laws arrive tomorrow and they’re very fond of eating.
Happy Anniversary, to Rickster and Mrs Rickster!
JT…I love that you tell people not to feed the trolls then hand them a bucket of chicken! I like feeding the harmless ones myself.
Rickster
August 7th, 2009
1:32 pm
American Idol Auditions we’d love to have seen: Mick Jagger
Randy: “Dude… it looked like you were having a seizure!”
Kara (smiling): “I can’t get over those lips!”
Paula (smiling): “I can’t get over that tongue!”
Simon: “Britain’s got talent!!”
Rickster
August 7th, 2009
1:33 pm
Seems to me that JT gave the troll a bag of Cat Chow!
linny ,,,=^..^=,,,
August 7th, 2009
1:37 pm
I have to say i LOVE these AI auditions we’d love to have seen. Rick, congrats to you and the Missus. Eat hearty!!! And enjoy yourselves, you deserve it!!
Heather, that one you did was priceless!
If i were not so busy, i’d give it a try, but you guys are making my mini-breaks enjoyable!!
g’luck, D, with the outlaws!
Rickster
August 7th, 2009
1:37 pm
Speaking of Mariah Carey… she was on AGT the other night. Horrible! (And I just don’t see the whole thing between her & Nick Cannon.)
Deirdre
August 7th, 2009
1:43 pm
Here’s a real treat!!!!! David Cook, Kris Allen and Adam Lambert singing Little Lies on GMA:
http://mjsbigblog.com/kris-allen-adam-lambert-and-david-cook-lies-good-morning-america-video.htm#more-8121
Highlander
August 7th, 2009
1:54 pm
Pacman is really getting on my friggin’ nerves today!!!!!
Ray Ray Bivens
August 7th, 2009
1:54 pm
Who goes to Red Lobster for their anniversary? That has to be a joke. Nothing says anniversary like a trip to Red Lobster. Where did you have your rehersal dinner, Shoney’s? BWHAHAHA Man, that is sad. It is no wonder you all blog about American Idol. It is obviously a nice distraction from your sad lives. LOL
Rickster
August 7th, 2009
1:57 pm
American Idol Auditions we’d love to have seen: Elvis Presley
Randy: “Dude, that was smokin’ molten hot!”
Kara: “You’re hot, you’ve got the hair, you’ve got the moves. You’ve got the whole package!”
Paula: “What??? Simon, why’d you wake me up? Oh…. sorry. I love the look. But the name. Elvis? Are you serious?”
Simon: “Young man, I think you might have a future in this business.”
Rickster
August 7th, 2009
1:57 pm
Ray Ray… go away way.
JTesla
August 7th, 2009
2:05 pm
Deirdre, you know how I like the troll lovin.
Happy anniversay Rickster.
Deirdre
August 7th, 2009
2:08 pm
Ray…have you ever had the Calamari with roasted veggies at Red Lobster? Fantastic! A movie and dinner at Red Lobster for my anniversary would be just fine with me. Your wife must be high maintenance. Course, my hubby took me to Paris for our 20th……that was pretty good!
Highlander
August 7th, 2009
2:14 pm
Deirdre, thanks for the link. I meant to TiVo GMA this morning but forgot about it. (Bollocks!)
And Rickster, speaking of Elvis, I still think Adam is channeling Elvis way more than Freddie Mercury. The hair, the strut, he even tries a little lip curl.
And this was in no way meant to get the Glamberts riled up! Just stating an opinion.
Rickster
August 7th, 2009
2:18 pm
“For me” – Adam looked like he was channeling Kurt Russell’s version of Elvis. Maybe he’s hoping someone will do another bio-pic and he can play the lead. He’s got the theater/acting experience.
Heather MacDonald
August 7th, 2009
2:54 pm
Rickster, Mariah was fine when you could HEAR her. The sound guy should have been fired after that. All you could hear was the backup and not the lead. Sad. IMO, Mariah has one of the best voices, and it made me sad to see them screw up her performance. As for her and Nick, I think it’s his weird sense of humor. I don’t think he takes all of her drama too seriously, and I think part of her LOVES that. It’s nice to have someone in your life who keeps you grounded, and Tommy Mottola obviously didn’t do that for her. I’m glad to see her back at the top of her game.
Heather MacDonald
August 7th, 2009
2:56 pm
I fear angering the trolls, so I won’t give an opinion on Elvis or Adam until I have my troll gun reloaded. With cat poop. LOL
Rickster
August 7th, 2009
3:10 pm
American Idol auditions we’d love to have seen: Toni Basil
Randy: “You know… I had a seriously whack, dope dream last night that involved cheerleaders….”
Kara: “The whole cheerleader outfit is a little distracting. It takes away from the artistry.”
Paula: “You know… I was a cheerleader, too!. I choreographed the Laker girl routines.”
Simon: “The make-up is a little scary, but I like the outfit and the way you shake your pom poms.”
Heather MacDonald
August 7th, 2009
3:13 pm
Rickster, you only posted that one because somewhere in your head you have a fantasy of Toni Basil singing “Oh, Ricky, you’re so fine…” LOL
Heather MacDonald
August 7th, 2009
3:19 pm
Speaking of cats in here, had anyone seen the headline on the main page?
Fla. man blames cat paws for child porn downloads
This is too good. No futher commentary necessary!!
Rickster
August 7th, 2009
3:38 pm
Heather: It was solely for the Paula / cheerleader connection!
The “blame the cat” man must be related to the woman who blamed her 17-year old step son for stealing all her liquor! (Liquor which she admitted she routinely purchases for him.)
Rickster
August 7th, 2009
3:42 pm
But I do agree with you, Heather, about having someone to keep you grounded. I’m taking mine out for dinner tonight! (And the reason we’re going to Red Lobster is because she LOVES the coconut shrimp.)
Deirdre
August 7th, 2009
4:09 pm
Loading our troll guns with cat poop is a terrific idea.
Rickster…no need to explain anyone’s delight with Red Lobster. I love the place!
Heather MacDonald
August 7th, 2009
4:10 pm
Well… since we have all these cats between us!! I’m training mine to hunt trolls on their own.
Mercedes S.
August 7th, 2009
4:17 pm
Deirdre – as so often before, you came through with great link! Thanks! Totally forgot about this morning’s GMA show… Adam def. in an Elvis mode. Great to see all three Idols on same stage.
Rickster
August 7th, 2009
4:27 pm
.American Idol auditions we’d love to have seen: Bobby Brown;
Randy: “Too bad Anoop sang that song so many times last year.”
Kara: “Not the greatest vocals, but not bad.”
Paula: “Great moves!”
Simon: “My prerogative? I’m saying no.”
Deirdre
August 7th, 2009
4:48 pm
Mike Darnell of FOX is giving us reason to hope on the 4 judge issue:
“I would call it a possibility that we’ll have the fourth judge,” says Fox reality chief, Mike Darnell, told the TV critics association yesterday, “I think it’s about casting and a little bit about semantics. If we find the right person, then four judges will probably be great. If we don’t, we’ll see. We’re not going to force the issue.”
Mercedes S.
August 7th, 2009
4:51 pm
Bob Dylan, auditioning for Idol, mid-60s:
Randy: “I don’t get it.”
Kara: “Artistry is missing. Need to work on that nasal tonality”.
Paula: “Maybe if you didn’t just stand there?”
Simon: “Not everybody can be the Beatels, but you could at least try”.
Rickster
August 7th, 2009
4:57 pm
Not bad Mercedes!
Everyone have a great weekend. I’m off to have dinner with my sweetheart.
Deirdre
August 7th, 2009
5:07 pm
Michael Slezak(of Idolatry fame) weighs in on the 4 judge issue. Gotta love this guy:
http://popwatch.ew.com/2009/08/07/american-idol-victoria-beckham-paula-abdul/
Allenism
August 7th, 2009
5:26 pm
Judges should be replaced by Commentators. American people vote; judges don’t vote. Only fools listened to those judgments on AI.
Highlander
August 7th, 2009
5:26 pm
Is anyone else having MAJOR problems with pacman today?!
Deirdre
August 7th, 2009
5:30 pm
Not major. I had trouble when I tried to post the Slezak article instead of a link to it. I’ve had to refresh repeatedly a number of times today but then, i always do so I haven’t noticed that pacman is any worse than usual.
Allenism
August 7th, 2009
5:39 pm
Rickster, You are awful funny. I’m your fan.
linny@home
August 7th, 2009
7:42 pm
Allenism, that’s what I’ve been saying all along, once the voting starts, these guys are NOT JUDGES. and as i said on slezack’s blog, these ‘tators should be smashed!
Highlander
August 8th, 2009
3:31 am
I was trying to post this earlier but evidently pacman has a bit of a problem with the ACTUAL last name of the singer in question. Suffice it to say he was the subject of a great parody on SNL by the late John Belushi.
American Idol auditions we’d love to have seen (with apologies to Rickster): Joe C**ker
Randy: “For me, for you, dude, that was wayyy to pitchy!”
Kara: “Where’s the artistry? Show me who you want to be as an artist.”
Paula: “I love your earthiness. Let your movements flow more, not so jerky.”
Simon: “What the hell was that?! You certainly need more than a ‘little’ help from your friends!”
Highlander
August 8th, 2009
4:45 am
Oops, make that “too” pitchy! Damn late-night keyboard! (That’s my story and I’m stickin’ to it!!)
Everybody
August 8th, 2009
10:18 am
Wow, Highlander, posting at 4:45 in the morning. Was it time to feed your cats? Man, get a life!
Deirdre
August 8th, 2009
10:54 am
“Everybody”…believe it or not, there are a lot of people from the west coast on this blog…and from other countries. Try to keep up, ok?
linny@home
August 8th, 2009
1:11 pm
What’s really amusing to me — we have twitter, facebook, youtube, myspace and a gazzillion other places — people send comments out round the clock — but because this is primarily an AI blog, people think WE’re nuts or stupid or something. As Deirdre said — keep up… we have waaaay more conversational content that “just AI” but AI is the core, the focus that brought us together, because MOST of the people here just happen to enjoy competition and discussions of talent and the business of music and performance. I’ll bet that most of the detractors that we get go around from board to board to board just LOOKING for stupid stuff to say!!! talk about NOT having a LIFE!!!
linny@home
August 8th, 2009
1:12 pm
besides, what’s wrong with a bit of insomnia and using the blog to spend some time? or what about people that get off work at 4 am and spend their “evening” doing what others do at 7 pm?
Highlander
August 8th, 2009
2:09 pm
Well, that’s truly the beauty of the internet in general and blogs in particular. ‘Everybody’ can surf and post and ‘Everybody’ can have differing opinions and ‘Everybody’ can say what they want.
And sometimes ‘Everybody’ will say things they wouldn’t dream of saying to someone face to face for fear of having their a$$ handed to them!
Mercedes S.
August 8th, 2009
2:52 pm
Yep, Deirdre and Linney; recall how on one hot afternoon the AI chatter turned tomato talk… and speaking of food (just put a cake in the oven; out of town party arriving at 6), the movie to see this weekend is “Julie & Julia”. Meryl Streep has never been funnier…
Harm
August 8th, 2009
8:16 pm
American Idol auditions we would’ve loved to see. Tiny Tim
Randy: Dawg???
Kara: I appreciate your artistry
Paula: You look pretty
Simon: Tiptoe out of here and shove those tulips up your …
That’s all I got!
Highlander
August 9th, 2009
2:52 pm
Now Paula’s getting an offer from the producer of Dancing With The Stars? As a judge or contestant?
Can’t see her as a judge there since the show is more about ballroom dancing, not exactly her forte. But at the same time, I don’t see her as a contestant on the show since they usually get celebrities (or sorta celebrities!) with no real dancing background.
JTesla
August 9th, 2009
4:26 pm
I’m kind of disappointed that we really didn’t seem to get a lot of new trolls. It seems to be the same one we had during the season, he just got a new “comedy” routine.
wreckedpizza
August 9th, 2009
10:19 pm
JTesla-
Nice picture of Megan Fox I saw while perusing usatoday.com. Thought you might enjoy (if you haven’t already seen it). If you have, enjoy it again!!!!
http://www.usatoday.com/life/lifestyle/fashion/2009-08-04-sheer-fashion_N.htm
JTesla
August 9th, 2009
11:42 pm
Megan Fox could be the fourth judge on Idol! I think that is a solution I could live with.
wreckedpizza
August 10th, 2009
1:16 am
Amen, JT. I second that motion. If we gotta have a fourth judge, let’s do it right.