Steve Jones, Nicole Scherzinger, Paula Abdul out on ‘X Factor’
In this Dec. 22, 2011 file photo, television host Steve Jones poses on the red carpet at "The X Factor" Finale show in Los Angeles. Jones said on Twitter on Monday, Jan. 30, 2012, that he wouldnt be returning to host the show's second season. (AP Photo/Dan Steinberg, file)
Loading ...UPDATE at 7:47 a.m., January 31: Five hours ago, Nigel Lythgoe Tweeted that Simon Cowell has fired Paula Abdul? What?
UPDATE at 2:43 p.m.: Paula has officially confirmed the news with this statement:
“Yes, it’s true; I won’t be returning to The X Factor next season. I’ve learned through my longevity in this industry that business decisions often times override personal considerations. Simon and I, along with Fox and Fremantle, have been communicating about this for a while now, and I have absolute understanding of the situation. Simon is, and will remain a dear friend of mine and I’ve treasured my experience working this past season with my extended family at Fox and Fremantle. I want nothing more than for The X Factor to exceed ALL of their wildest dreams. This truly has been a blessing and I am most grateful.”
UPDATE: 4:08 p.m. Simon has also confirmed the news, thanking everybody for their services. Mike Darnell of Fox specifically thanked Paula for her services. Nicole Tweeted her departure this afternoon as well.
We made fun of Steve Jones here relentlessly during “The X Factor” season, probably more so than anybody this side of Sanjaya. And now he’s out, according to his Twitter page.
“I won’t be hosting next seasons X Factor which is a shame but I cant complain as I’ve had a great time. Good luck to everyone on the show.”
The fact of the matter is Steve Jones was bad at his job. And for a reality competition program with $5 million at stake, it’s an important job – at least for a TV show. He looked perpetually stressed and uncomfortable, even when he tried so hard to look relaxed and in control. He read the teleprompter with the authenticity of a politician and the joy of a wax figure. He was the anti-Seacrest, the Robo-host, the man lost in a vortex of confusion and sadness. By the third live episode, he probably realized he was toast.
During a phone press conference in the middle of the season, the poor man complained to reporters about producers barking in his ear and mistook a question comparing him to Seacrest, thinking it was a compliment. The journalist didn’t bother to correct him. Very awkward.
Bottom line: Simon Cowell goofed on that hire!
UPDATE at 10:48 a.m. Jan. 31: As for Nicole Scherzinger, Fox has confirmed to Hollywood Reporter that she it out as well.
Loading ...She is also missing that authenticity gene. She lacks the warmth of Paula Abdul. She seemed almost redundant given Paula’s spot. Of course, she was supposed to be a co-host with Jones until Cheryl Cole was booted. I almost wish we had Cheryl. I’m certain she would have been better.
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By Rodney Ho, Radio & TV Talk
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121 comments Add your comment
MyPatootie
January 30th, 2012
11:29 pm
Now maybe they will hire an American. Just one less job going to a foreigner. Every job counts!
DanJ
January 30th, 2012
11:32 pm
Paula is also gone according to a report I read on Yahoo! I honestly hate to see her go. So far LA Reid is safe. He should go IMO!
Steve Jones says he’s out on ‘X Factor.’ Nicole Scherzinger may not be far behind | ATLANTAboy.com | Gay Atlanta Celebrity, Film, Movie & TV News
January 30th, 2012
11:48 pm
[...] more Steve Jones says he’s out on ‘X Factor.’ Nicole Scherzinger may not be far behind at Radio & TV Talk… /* * * CONFIGURATION VARIABLES: EDIT BEFORE PASTING INTO YOUR [...]
Jesse's Girl
January 30th, 2012
11:49 pm
sugar — i honestly don’t care for this show…..
it seemed like it took them 11 months to pick a winner….every time you turned on the tv ANOTHER episode was on ….
YIKES!!!!!
Jenny
January 31st, 2012
12:09 am
They needed to do something. “The X Factor” is a terrible terrible show.
http://mankabros.com/blogs/onmedea/2011/11/08/the-x-factor-is-terrible/
Rick'd
January 31st, 2012
12:59 am
@MayPatootie
DEY TERK ER JERBS!
Jessie
January 31st, 2012
1:38 am
This was shocking to me
http://thejmanproject.wordpress.com/2012/01/31/paula-abdul-nicole-sherzinger-and-steve-jones-fired-from-the-x-factor-usa/
Nicole Scherzinger is leaving Fox’s The X Factor. – Entertainment Weekly | Rss News Desk | Daily News Magazine
January 31st, 2012
1:49 am
[...] Atlanta Journal Constitution [...]
Nicole Scherzinger also leaving ‘X Factor’! – Entertainment Weekly - Slate Asset Blog Network
January 31st, 2012
2:38 am
[...] Atlanta Journal Constitution [...]
Will
January 31st, 2012
4:33 am
This show was a total sham. When Simon kept that young kid that refused to sing on one of the elimination episodes, I thought this is a total sham. If Simon doesn’t kick him to the curb for that attitude, this show is totally bogus. And sure enough, Simon let him stay. Could NOT believe it. The judges never got real with any of the contestants when it was totally warranted, they just kissed each contestants butt at judging time. The show was full of no-talents and the judges acted like each one was the next Mick Jagger. It was disgusting and a huge waste of time.
Deirdre
January 31st, 2012
7:41 am
Morning!
Hip Hip Hooray on the anti-Seacrest’s firing!
I may actually give X-F another try IF LA Reid is booted.
Paula? She(surprisingly) was the only decent judge on the show.
Nicole seems to be universally disliked so she can go.
That leaves Simon who was the worst! Why? Because he(as the show’s owner) put on a circus instead of a contest.
1. Fake arguments between the judges….Simon, if you’re going to have scripted arguments at least hire actors as judges. It might feel real.
2. Too many back-up singers. How do we know if someone can carry a tune without help?
3. Too many dancers…some of which seemed to have been located at the neighborhood strip club.
4. Too many lights. Frankly I don’t know why the show hasn’t been sued for causing seizures.
5. Too many fires. How many times can we see fire shooting up behind a singer and still be impressed.
Don’t get me wrong. I’m not saying he should cut all the razz-ma-tazz completely. Just TONE IT DOWN!
Highlander
January 31st, 2012
7:44 am
Morning!
Wow, Will! Stop beating around the bush and tell us how you really feel!
Highlander
January 31st, 2012
7:50 am
If Paula is also gone, as some are reporting, I can understand it.
Although she was a bit better in her judging since Idol, she really didn’t add anything to the show.
Perhaps her initial hiring was simply a strategy by Simon to try to lure in more of the Idol audience whom he thought might want to see he and Paula back together again at the judges table.
And the ratings he expected was shooting for just didn’t arrive.
Highlander
January 31st, 2012
7:55 am
I can also understand Simon keeping L.A. Reid involved since they are both involved with Sony and L.A. has genuine experience in developing and marketing musical acts. (More so than Simon, actually!)
The only thing I didn’t like about L.A. was his inability to ‘man-up’ when it came down to critiquing his own contestants.
KenneMa
January 31st, 2012
8:17 am
Any changes should help that show. I gave it 1-2 tries and just couldn’t bear it.
commoncents
January 31st, 2012
8:19 am
Glad they got rid of Paula. Every comment she ever made sounded scripted and rehearsed, not to mention her general persona is abrasive. I feel sympathy for her, though, as she should be in a home for washed out performers.
At least Nicole is still attractive. Neither her nor Paula should have been there
amyruth
January 31st, 2012
8:37 am
Enter your comments here
amyruth
January 31st, 2012
8:38 am
I must’ve said at least 5 times each episode-”HE’S SUCH A TOOL!”
orlando
January 31st, 2012
8:39 am
Why would he fire LA Reid? He has the most experience in picking a star than any of them…. Simon knows better than to even attempt to fire LA. But the fact of the matter is, LA doesn’t need Xfactor, he is already made a name for himself, so hush to LA firing talk… aint gonna happen.
Jen
January 31st, 2012
8:48 am
Fire la. He has no clue up there
sherry
January 31st, 2012
8:49 am
Never watched it don’t care too. I think they should have started with a better group of judges. Paula, is a nut case. Didn’t like her on Idol.
orlando
January 31st, 2012
8:57 am
Jen, no clue??? i think that would be you…. LA Reid is pne of the most successful music execs in the business. No clue??? wow, you are delusional.
Deirdre
January 31st, 2012
8:58 am
orlando…glad you asked(and please remember that this is an opinion I hold not the be-all and end-all of decisions).
LA became focused on putting other acts down in order to benefit his own people. Most of the time, he was taunting Simon rather than giving an honest critique. He rarely had anything good to say about singers other than his crew of boys. He claimed to never “get” Melanie when, in actuality, I believe he knew she was going to beat him.
And this is where the show fails miserably. The focus is not on the singers but on what the judges do with the singers. It wasn’t about Melanie but about Simon winning. It wasn’t about Astro acting bratty but about creating controversy and ratings.
It failed as a singing contest and obviously failed as a contest amongst the judges.
DanJ
January 31st, 2012
8:59 am
Simon is crafty if nothing else. He’s keeping XF in the news just as Idol and The Voice are on or about to go on the air. The fact he kicked Paula to the curb must mean he’s going BIG. He probably will try to out diva the other shows. Christina and J-Lo are household names so there’s only a handful of female artists who are bigger names. Look for him to name the replacements as the other shows get near the finals. I’d be willing to bet he gets at least one of these three. Whitney Houston, Madonna or Mariah. I say that because thats the way Simon thinks. BIGGER IS BETTER!
While that isn’t true in real life it is in his mind! Regardless to what people think about Simon or the show he keeps the debate going and the show in the news.
me
January 31st, 2012
9:00 am
Really, I like the talent on this show. Seemed like a higher caliber than that of American Idol. The judges were like politicians: biased. Refused to ackowledge when their act did a bad job. Be real. You are paid to be a judge, so judge honestly for your salary.
To me, Paula was a little less nutty on XF than on AI. Nicole should be fired. Her inability to be real and truly judge and speak honestly, she doesn’t deserve to be there. Cut out the stupid arguments between the judges. Be honest with the talent, who cares what they are wearing, do away with all the bells and whistles and lights and dancers and focus on the talent.
That said, I stil plan on wathcing it next season, and again this year will not be watching AI.
CAP
January 31st, 2012
9:00 am
Really looked forward to the show, however, after a couple of episodes, I ended up hating it!!! I didn’t like the judges, their picks of the talent! The whole format was awful and the host was even worse..don’t think I will ever watch it again…I know I won’t if they put Howard Stern on as a judge….he is a scumbag!!!!!
SMITTYSTHEMAN
January 31st, 2012
9:04 am
Hey Simon — this the AMERICAN version of X Factor. Get an AMERICAN host. Also, I agree with a previous writer — the contestants became second fiddle because it became the same old song and dance every single week. It became ALL about the judges and their bickering among each other, leaving the contestants standing up on stage feeling like “Hey what about me? I’m the contestant here!” It was pathetic, along with the judges only thinking THEIR contestant should win and not being impartial and objective with ALL the contestants. If that format doesn’t change, I won’t be watching. I’ll take American Idol any day. The talent is much better and it’s a REAL singing contest.
JackDennis
January 31st, 2012
9:08 am
Who freakin cares?
Deirdre
January 31st, 2012
9:10 am
Dan, Simon has said dozens of times that he wants Mariah…..my guess is that they’re negotiating a deal as I write this.
sharon
January 31st, 2012
9:15 am
I love X Factor. I knew when Paula and Nicole had their breakdowns, their days were numbered. LA Reid is the perfect person to be judging talent considering he’s worked with the biggest stars in music. The talent on this show was ten times better than anything on Idol. I loved the format, the productions etc. After watching this show I realize how much of a joke Idol is. I have not watched Idol yet since it started back up. Maybe I’ll tune in hollywood week. If it’s a weak top 12, I’ll tune out.
Deirdre
January 31st, 2012
9:16 am
Wow! My son, Mr Atlanta, just hit the nail on the head! David Beckham just signed a 2 year deal with the L.A. Galaxy!
I now see Mariah AND Victoria Beckham as the new judges!
Nonia
January 31st, 2012
9:22 am
Better yet, why not fire both X factor and American Idol? The sing-off reality show formats have obviously run their course-
I was done with the sing-off type of shows when Paula told an American Idol contestant that she liked his first song selection but didn’t like his second, when he in fact never sang a second song-
Season after season, the real singers get voted off the show and go on to be more successful and famous than the winner of these shows.
Everyone involved with Simon Cowell’s projects became very wealthy now the well has run dry, and it’s time to move on and end these shows-
Hold Up Just a Minute
January 31st, 2012
9:23 am
If X Factor was supposed to be a reality show – it was anything but. When judges start hacking away against performers in another judges group – without regard to the performers talent or lack there of – purely to retaliate against a judge for their negative remarks – reality left the show and the circus came to town. X Factor ended up being a show – not about talent – but about the judges and which one could outdo the other. The whole show from top to bottom – every week – was a joke and one big irritation to the performers, studio and TV audience – and completely unprofessional. It ended up being a show about the judges – showing off their homes, money and attitudes. The X Factor wasn’t about which performer had the X Factor – it was about which judge had the X Factor – meaning the most powerful – influential – important to the show and industry.
Deirdre
January 31st, 2012
9:25 am
sharon, other than Melanie, Josh, Astro and maybe Leroy, I didn’t see anyone on XF that was really good. The little girl who wanted her own bathroom was ok. The singing brothers who got eliminated on the first show were good. The young girl who made everything she sang sound exactly the same was talented in an Enya-lite kinda way. Marcus had potential but was way over-produced by LA(another reason he should go). But none of them stood out as potential stars imo.
Deirdre
January 31st, 2012
9:26 am
Nona..if you’re done with these shows don’t watch them…last time I looked, Idol was still either #1 or #2 in the ratings. Nobody is going to get rid of a show that makes that much money.
allen981
January 31st, 2012
9:29 am
Nothing compares to Idol; when another show finds a country girl from Oklahoma who’s never been out of state and turns her into a megastar, come talk to me.
Or, how about the golf course mechanic who’d been playing/singing for 3 years and knocked it out of the park?
I’d much rather watch someone trying to learn and move forward via Idol than second-tier, already been there folks looking for third and fourth chances on the other shows.
Nonia
January 31st, 2012
9:30 am
Deidre,
Read please!!!!!! Didn’t i start my staement off with “I was done with the sing-off reality show”? This means I stopped watching them-
Read next time, Ok?
Thanks-
blkshepherd
January 31st, 2012
9:32 am
@CAP
“Really looked forward to the show, however, after a couple of episodes…”
OMG!you took the words right out of my mouth. I probably would have finished your sentence with..” after a couple of episodes not only did I get lost but began to hate it.
Astro Brat really ticked me off and cause me to lose interest in the show. And some of the other not so good contestants who should have been long gone.
I had such High Hopes for the show.. sigh:-( although this season’s Idol has yet to put a Toot in my horn(all those Awful Auditions keep my TV on Mute, I guess until the final 12 when you get some half way Decent singing.
Nicole gone. Nicole who? she never made a lasting impression to me. I dont even think I would notice.
Robo Host. I will miss his Wax Like appearence and how lost and nervous he looked when situations arose.
Paula Abdul. Why was she there to begin with?
LA Reid toned down on the lip stick and gloss(since they called him out) but remains just as boring as Randy Jackson.
Waist of millions of dollars. but guess gives us something to go blah, blah, blah, about.
Devil's Advocate
January 31st, 2012
9:34 am
I haven’t watched Idol on a regular basis in years. I treated XF the same but from the few glimpses I’d say I like the XF formula better. My suggestions:
1. Reduce the background singers involvement until the final four or so.
2. Let surviving contestants move from judge to judge instead of being stuck with a single judges. This takes the focus and agendas away from the judges and puts the attention back on the contestants.
3. Keep Paula, dump Nicole and replace her with another entertainer with credibility in the business. LA will be fine with suggestion #2.
Deirdre
January 31st, 2012
9:42 am
Nonia…I did read…what I also read was, just because YOU’RE done…everyone else should be done, too and all these shows should be cancelled. That’s a little different than you choosing to not watch them. Idol will not end until it fails the ratings war. The “well” is not dry yet!
DanJ
January 31st, 2012
9:43 am
Deirdre you may be right about Victoria Beckham. I’m sure you’re right about Mariah. I wouldn’t rule out Whitney Houston IF she’s clean. Her career has tanked and she could get a boost from doing XF. Having TWO divas in Simon’s mind would blow away the other shows. Notice I said in Simon’s mind.
Personally someone older like Clive Davis would be better simply because of the respect he garners in the industry. Time will tell.
G
January 31st, 2012
9:46 am
LA REID is the only credible “judge/mentor” on the panel. Who cares if you like what he has to say or not, his skills have made stars on the pop and r&b scene. His track record speaks for itself. Getting rid of LA would be a definite downgrade.
cha cha
January 31st, 2012
9:53 am
Shes a cold hearted snake. Look into her eyes. Oh she’s been tellin lies.
G
January 31st, 2012
10:00 am
If anything, LA should leave to start his own show that focuses more on pop and r&b acts. AI has gone country, AGT is a circus, and The Voice is still undecided on the direction of genre that will dominate. So far, XF is the only show that gives an r&b artist a fair shot, but who knows how long that may last. For all other shows (especially AI), it’s a waste of time. Oh, Fantasia & Ruben is SO in the past. You will NEVER see an r&b artist win on AI again. Guaranteed!
DanJ
January 31st, 2012
10:08 am
The problem with XFactor aside from over-production numbers is that the judges were biased to a degree that it was uncomfortable to hear their comments. LA Reid and Simon were the worst offenders. I honestly thoght Paula was the best judge.
That said I will continue to watch Idol, XF and even The Voice because I enjoy music. While I have my likes and dislikes about the formats of the shows in the end I’m entertained.
However If I didn’t watch or hated a show I wouldn’t waste my time here commenting on it. Seems kinda silly to take the time to bash something you care nothing about. What does that say about you? I say that to those who the comments apply to.
JTesla
January 31st, 2012
10:14 am
One problem with the show was the focus on the judges and not on the talent. All the suggestions here for replacements would maintain that judge centered focus.
Oh and buh-bye tool (robo-host)
Jubie
January 31st, 2012
10:32 am
Xfactor will never be as good as Idol.
kelly&carriefan
January 31st, 2012
10:43 am
Well, dang. Guess the axed dropped over in XF-land. But I have to agree with D’s critique of why the show didn’t click for me as well as DanJ about the timing of this news. Just as The Voice is right about to start, which to me is XF’s main competitor. I’m basing that on the ratings I was able to find for The Voice were about 10-12million.
It will be interesting to see who Simon gets to replace Paula and Nicole. I’m not surprised Nicole is gone, when everyone started booing her on the show, I figured she’s probably be a goner. Simon needs to realize that a GOOD host is hard to find, but imperative for the success of the show. While I might not be a fan of Carson Daly these days, I do recall that he was quite popular during the TRL days. So a lot of the young demo is fairly familiar with him.
Let the replacement speculation begin! Mariah would be too much of a polarizing pick, imo. While she has a big fan base, there are a lot of folks who don’t care for her and her perceived diva ways. I am intrigued by the Victoria Beckham idea. She’s actually a lot more personable and funny than she’s been portrayed in the US media.
orlando
January 31st, 2012
10:50 am
victoria beckham??? no way, she has no talent…how can she judge??? She never sung lead on a SG song… She is all wrong… We dont need another brit as a judge anyways.
Rickster
January 31st, 2012
10:54 am
For Immediate Release:
Hollywood, CA: Now that he’s out at X-Factor, Steve Jones already has a new gig lined up. He’ll be
standing next to the Dunkelman and Carson Daly figures in the “Guys that never should have never hosted a show” exhibit at Madame Tussauds Wax Museum.
“It’s a perfect fit for us both,” said Tussaud CEO Bill Board. “He gets a paying gig, and we don’t have to go through the time and expense of making a wax figure. It’s a win-win!”
Unlike the wax-only figures, Jones will actually get to interact with visitor, repeating his well know catch-phrases like, “we need a decision, Paula,” “tell us how you’re feeling” and reminding the visitors that they can move through the museum “in no particular order.”
“The only down side” says Board is “there’s only one Steve Jones. We’d love to put him on display in other museums, but we realize that Hollywod – the home of stars, has-beens and never weres – is the natural place for this collection.”
–30 –
Woodpappy
January 31st, 2012
11:04 am
LOL Rickster
Rickster
January 31st, 2012
11:05 am
Thanks, WP!
kelly&carriefan
January 31st, 2012
11:07 am
Well, having no talent has never been a disqualifier on judging a reality competition, has it? I mean, Paula and J. Lo aren’t exactly powerhouse vocalists…just saying.
Michael Slezak over at TVLine has some interesting ideas: Queen Latifah and Linda Perry chief among them. http://www.tvline.com/2012/01/the-x-factor-season-2-shakeup-cast-changes/
Rickster,
Deirdre
January 31st, 2012
11:10 am
Dan: However If I didn’t watch or hated a show I wouldn’t waste my time here commenting on it. Seems kinda silly to take the time to bash something you care nothing about. What does that say about you? I say that to those who the comments apply to.
I do see something wrong with someone who bashes a show he/she doesn’t watch. How is it possible to comment when you haven’t actually seen the show…what makes the comment credible in any way?
I do not agree(obviously) that people who watch the show and don’t like it should refrain from commenting. I for one put a lot of effort, not to mention, patience into X-F…giving Simon the benefit of the doubt. He, imo, did NOT put together a good show. And I’d be lying if I pretended that he did.
Deirdre
January 31st, 2012
11:12 am
As far as LA Reid is concerned, an excellent music producer and one who is terrific at finding and managing talent is not necessarily a good tv personality. Whether coerced by Simon to argue or whether it was just LA’s personality, he did not do a good job as a judge/mentor on this show.
Deirdre
January 31st, 2012
11:14 am
Rickster!!! LOL!!!!
Rickster
January 31st, 2012
11:16 am
Watching that dude in the Pepsi commercial made me realize that I’ve been shirking my Court Jester duties a bit lately.
JTesla
January 31st, 2012
11:20 am
Rickster has found his new calling, writing press releases.
I want to watch and like X-Factor, but they worked to hard at making me hate it for me to be able to endure the full season.
Steve Jones, Nicole Scherzinger not returning to "The X Factor" – CBS News | Trend Tycoon!
January 31st, 2012
11:24 am
[...] Atlanta Journal Constitution (blog) [...]
Rickster
January 31st, 2012
11:37 am
I might be able to get a job writing releases/stories for “The Onion.”
Confusted...
January 31st, 2012
11:54 am
The X-Factor’s format is WHACK. The show features singers, groups, young, old, rappers, rockers, country wannabees; it’s total confusing and can’t build a loyal following with a hodge podge of talent.
RECOMMENDATIONS
1. Have a season where you only focus on a male / female vocalist. The next season do an X-Factor group show ; then maybe for the next season do the best young star etc….
2. Get rid of the mentoring section of the show
3. Have the contestants sing or or two of their own songs.
4. Let the viewers decide who stays and who goes (i.e. No SAVES).
Try this and see what happens….anything is better than the current X-Factor format……..YAWN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
2.
Deirdre
January 31st, 2012
12:05 pm
Thumbs up to Confusted
Deirdre
January 31st, 2012
12:19 pm
A source close to X-F claims that the recent firing is because simon thinks the show needs bigger celebrities.
Really Simon? THAT’S what you think the show needs?
Skunkiezoid
January 31st, 2012
12:21 pm
The show was lame and very unrealistic. LA Reid seemed to be there only to find new gigs that suited the genre for his label. That is completely self-serving and good talent was eliminated to make room for the young hip-hop artists.
As for Deirdre, why are you hammering at that other blogger for having an opinion different than your own? That’s oxymoron in it’s rawest fashion. She didn’t like the show, never wants to watch it again and doesn’t know how anyone would. YOU on the other hand WILL watch and pretty much “how dare she”! Then you go on to defend YOUR position and tell her to buzz off.
Seems YOU’re the one that should buzz off….by the way…how many TIMES are you going to post here? Are you collecting comments for a scrapbook or something? jeezh.
JTesla
January 31st, 2012
12:31 pm
What, you don’t have a comment scrapbook Skunkiezoid? Oh and you included the answer to your question with the statement of “and doesn’t know how anyone would”. Once the other person applied her reasoning to others, she opened the door to comment.
Deirdre, Simon obviously doesn’t get it. I’m starting to think that HE is the only problem X-Factor has.
Deirdre
January 31st, 2012
12:34 pm
Skunk…she wanted the shows to be cancelled. My point was she doesn’t have to watch them. There’s a big difference between those two solutions. She said she’s not watching them. If she’s not watching them why would she care whether or not they’re cancelled? I don’t care whether she watches the shows or not. But I want to watch them so why would she tell me I shouldn’t?
And believe me…I wasn’t “hammering” When I “hammer”, you’ll know it!
Deirdre
January 31st, 2012
12:37 pm
And I never told her to buzz off. I told her I disagreed with her…not once did I say she shouldn’t comment.
Joel
January 31st, 2012
12:37 pm
I had high hopes for this show last season, but was disappointed. I dont’ blame Simon for firing Nicole and “what’s his name”, but I think he should have let LA go and kept Paula. I thought she actually did a good job, better than when she was on Idol. I doubt I’ll watch next year, unless he gets a really, really big name.
Deirdre
January 31st, 2012
12:37 pm
And I’ll post on here as many times as I damned well please. You feel free to do the same.
Randy Jackson
January 31st, 2012
12:41 pm
The Whole Freakin show should go it sucks
Sam-A
January 31st, 2012
12:43 pm
I agree with all who think Paula was actually the high point in the judging panel. And I detest Mariah C – her ego is so elevated, if she fell off her platform, it’d take her a month to reach the ground! I think Vic B might be good – she has seemed very warm and funny on various talks shows, the one I best remember being “Ellen”.
I think they should at least eliminate the “group” category – it was a total disaster! And 3 judges is aplenty!
Deirdre
January 31st, 2012
12:48 pm
Sam, Victoria did a very good job as a guest judge on Idol a couple of years ago.
And yes, eliminating the group category(or not “creating” groups out of solo hopefuls) would help.
Seth T.
January 31st, 2012
12:50 pm
I seen some portions of shows of the UK version that XF was spinning from – and they had groups and always a couple “wierd”, wacko, unusual or spoof talents in their top 10. They also sometimes used the over-the-top stage shows.
America was not ready for this crazy format with several of the top 12 on a set-up-to-fail basis. There was little doubt, right from the auditions, the “bring-back” of Melanie for extra side-story & camera time, that she was moving toward the top 2 and would likely win – as she was the best all-around singer for current Hot 100 type of music and the most “marketable” potential star – that they put into the top 12.
Casey Abrams is officially signed: record deal with Concord Music Group
Stefano Langone is also officially signed: Hollywood Records. He’s also looking to crack the Latin market, so expect some Spanish-language songs from him soon.
Also hear that Pia Toscano and Haley Reinhart are working on new material for new releases in the near future.
skeeter
January 31st, 2012
1:03 pm
I like X much, much better than Idol, but I haven’t watched Idol in three or four years. I like the format better and the variety of solo and groups. I could care less who is the host. That’s not why I tune in to these types of shows.
When I go to a live concert, why does it matter who is the mc? I’m there to hear Frankie Beverly or EWF.
I must admit, I will truly miss seeing Nicole. God was at His best that day
I Neg Your Pardon
January 31st, 2012
1:18 pm
Obviously Simon knows X-Failure was a giant fail this past season, but does he really understand why? Exchanging judges and hosts for bigger named stars will not cure the root of the show’s true problem: The complete lack of substance.
It’s a carnival act, a special effects production with no compelling characters or storyline. It’s the Transformers of talent shows, and adding a bigger celebrity to the cast won’t fix a dam(n) thing. To keep viewer interest over a long series we have to admire the talent on stage, care about who advances or goes home, feel connected to the singers themselves. The laser lights, smoke, fire and background booty dancers are just distracting crap that gets old fast.
If X can’t make it on the talent it attracts, without the scripted dramas between the judges, the gaudy choreography, the video game special effects, the over-the-top production, than it has no chance in the long run.
From what I see, Simon has learned nothing. He’s just a conman trying to sell us his British snake oil, and we ain’t buying.
Deirdre
January 31st, 2012
1:19 pm
LOL! skeeter, I have to agree with you. Nicole is very pretty.
I think there’s a big difference between a host at a live concert and a tv host. Especially when you compare the difference between Ryan helping a contestant through a difficult critique or an elimination to the ex X-F host attempting to help.
Annie
January 31st, 2012
1:20 pm
Dropping Paula is probably the right move, even though she was the only one on the panel that was worth a darn. She was giving the hardest category to mentor, but she actually coached them. I doubt that any of the other mentors spent time with their groups outside of what was required to get enough footage for that week’s show. But, it was clear from the start that Paula was spending time with the groups, it’s the only reason why Intensity didn’t look like a total joke. The only problem with Paula is that having her and Simon on the show just makes the X Factor look more like a carbon copy of American Idol.
LA Reid is fine, but if Paula’s role on the show was unnecessary, then it’s also unnecessary to have both LA and Simon. Nobody but those two is interested in their faux drama, and neither is adding anything that the other doesn’t. It may be Simon’s’ show, but I’d dump him, and keep LA.
With Simon on the panel there is no drama or suspense. His acts will get the best spots, music, and insults from the other judges. Simon should either get off from in front of the camera, or become like an impartial judge, who isn’t given control over any of the groups.
Deirdre
January 31st, 2012
1:21 pm
Seth, thanks for the info.
Jillian C
January 31st, 2012
1:22 pm
Dang you guys. It’s not worth getting worked up and becoming childish, namecalling, language, etc. Melanie was NOT the best if you ask me. I think she only won because SHE was Simon’s PICK. So much for finding the BEST talent. I thought the older guy would have been in the run of top two. There’s too much 20 something pop and rap on the radio and I’m NOT looking forward to another Whitney or Mariah that Melanie is sure to TRY and be. Yawn.
Annie
January 31st, 2012
1:27 pm
To Confusted, Diversity is a good thing. That’s the one area where the X Factor got things right. Even though they were missing out on a country act. I wish that American Idol was as diverse as they were during the early years. Having diversity will attract a younger and more diverse audience, and the thing that will help ensure a diverse list of winners. One of the biggest problems with the 9th season of American Idol was the lack of diversity, it’s the main reason why that season was so boring.
Deirdre
January 31st, 2012
1:32 pm
Annie, I actually real like the idea of Simon becoming an impartial judge. That would solve a big problem.
DanJ
January 31st, 2012
1:36 pm
I agree groups should be dropped from the catagories with 1 additional personal added to the remaining 3. Guys, Girls and Over 30. I do think 4 judges/mentors sould remain. However I think Simon should not be one of the mentors, leave it to the other 3. Simon should only judge! If the mentors shows a bias then he could be a voice of reason. After all it’s his show and his money.
I also think the audience should decide between the bottom two not the judges. If XF hires a good host and cut back on the over-production then it would become the show to beat. Just like American Idol, XFactor has some things I like and some I don’t.
I hope any show regardless what type of show it is listens to the feedback from the audience. You can learn a lot from it. Especially the negative…critical comments. I think it’s obvious most of us enjoy these shows or else we wouldn’t be commenting on them. Hopefully the shows have reps who read this blogs and on-line forums to gather information, if not they should. My two cents anyway! Dan
Deirdre
January 31st, 2012
1:45 pm
Thumbs up to Dan. I agree!
Harriett
January 31st, 2012
1:49 pm
Hi, everyone. Just lurking today. Home sick but enjoying your conversation.
skeeter
January 31st, 2012
1:54 pm
Ya see Deirdre, we do agree on something. There is hope in this ole world afterall.
I read your reply last night and after reading all the way from the top of the page, I could
see where you Assumed I were refering to you. No harm, no foul, carry on.
DanJ
January 31st, 2012
1:56 pm
It looks like LA Reid put his money where his mouth is. He signed Chris, Astro & Marcus. And it appears Simon is smart enough to sign Josh!
http://music.yahoo.com/blogs/reality-rocks/epic-news-l-reid-label-signs-chris-rene-215706510.html
Jenny (the usual one)
January 31st, 2012
1:59 pm
Hey, Pac-Man ate my comment! Now I really do feel like I belong.
What it said was – (first) More Jennys again? That wasn’t me who posted the link on the first page. I guess I do need to find another name. Suggestions, anyone?
And (second) I haven’t finished reading all the comments yet, but if Paula really is gone, never mind what I said about continuing to watch because the best singer won. I doubt I will now. And especially if Simon keeps LA Reid! LA was awful. I’m sure I’ll have more to say after reading the comments.
Deirdre
January 31st, 2012
2:04 pm
Good to go, skeeter. dinky has also been kind on the previous thread. I like it a lot when we can move on from a disagreement. We work hard at that here so stick with us, peek in at Idol and see what you think.
Deirdre
January 31st, 2012
2:06 pm
Jenny…how about The Usual.
DanJ
January 31st, 2012
2:08 pm
Deirdre, my point earlier wasn’t about those who watch or have watched the shows making negative comments. I think constructive criticism is great. What burns my keister are those folks who bash shows they claim not to watch and make snide remarks about those of us who do.
Sam-A
January 31st, 2012
2:14 pm
Or ‘Usual Jenny” or “sweet Jenny” – which would really suit your demeanor so far – you’ve been a really nice addition to our little group!
Sam-A
January 31st, 2012
2:16 pm
That’s assuming you are the newish Jenny who joined us a short while ago. Same happened to me – I just added “-A” to keep confusion down. I was even confused myself!
Deirdre
January 31st, 2012
2:22 pm
I got you, Dan and agree. What makes someone who claims to never watch a show think that anything they have to say about it is relevant?
Deirdre
January 31st, 2012
2:24 pm
Or even Jenny1…that way we’d recognize you as the original.
Mezmorise
January 31st, 2012
2:36 pm
Hire me as the new host for the X-FACTOR
Sam-A
January 31st, 2012
2:41 pm
On another note, Rickster, just heard Roy O’s “Blue Bayou” on my streaming station – what a glorious voice!
Annie
January 31st, 2012
2:53 pm
Dan J. Simon likes to be in control, so there’s no way that he would allow the public to decide who in the bottom two stays. Having control is the only reason why that provision exists. Besides, unlike in the UK we have multiple time zones, so it would be cruel to make one of the participants wait until the next week to see if they made it to the next round.
Jenny (the usual one)
January 31st, 2012
2:56 pm
Awww! Thank you, Sam-A!
Yes, that’s me, the newish one. Funny you say that, because I often get told that I’m “too nice”. (Which is a critique I’m OK with!) And D, Jenny1’s a good idea… going to keep thinking, but might do that! Thanks!
Well, after reading the comments… if they hire Mariah, I might watch just out of curiosity! Long enough to see how she does, anyway. I love her as a singer, but haven’t paid much attention to other reports about her. So I don’t have a clue how she might be in a role like this. And D, that’s right, I’d forgotten Posh did do well as a guest judge on Idol. I’d be curious to see how she would do also.
And as far as LA. (Sorry in advance for my soapbox rant. Here goes.) He may have a lot of experience, but he really acted like a jerk on the show. I completely agree with D that his critiques of the girls were anything but honest… they were primarily done to taunt Simon. And he knew Melanie very possibly would beat any of his precious boys in the end. I thought it was sad that even when another singer did well, he couldn’t bring himself to compliment them. Seems that he’s never heard of being a gracious loser.
Plus, he hurt his credibility with some of his comments. For example, if he’s in the industry, shouldn’t he have known that Drew’s song “Skyscraper” was by a 17-year old Disney star? No, I personally can’t name all of the Disney kids, but I don’t work in the music industry. LA, however, does….
And finally, he allowed Astro to get away with his awful behaviour. Astro was absolutely infuriating to watch. He should’ve been removed from the show IMMEDIATELY when he “didn’t feel it was necessary” to sing for his life. What is necessary in Astro’s life is some discipline, apparently!! OK, done with the rant. Just needed to explain why I dislike LA so much. (Once I get riled up, I am no longer so nice, huh.) Anyway… next on the soapbox?
Other thoughts… someone earlier mentioned Paula’s comment on Idol about a second song that the contestant hadn’t done yet…. that was Jason Castro, and Paula had watched rehearsals earlier, so she had already seen his second song. She was probably thinking back to that, and just made a mistake.
Oh, and DanJ, Clive Davis might be good! Someone needs to bring some respect to that show.
Sam-A
January 31st, 2012
3:08 pm
Jen: welcome to the “sometimes not so nice” club. I think we all spend some time in that zone, especially when a fave gets the boot while an undeserving one keeps on keeping on! You should have been around when my beloved Michael Johns got the heave-ho waaaaaay too early! Or when Clay did not win, though I’d been reading all season that he was getting as many votes as the rest of the singers combined were getting – I was furious! But, I wasn’t posting here at that time, so didn’t take it out on these guys! (Not even sure “here” was actually here in season 2). And no, I was/am NOT a “Claymate”, but he has a truly purely lovely voice, and was such a great contestant – taking in every criticism of Simons (and there were very many), acting on them, and improving looks and stage presence every week (no improvement needed on that voice).
Sam-A
January 31st, 2012
3:17 pm
Mercedes, just in case you check in, “Downton Abbey” has been renewed for a 3rd season. Unbelievably, Shirley McLaine has been hired to play Lady Grantham’s mother. She is so way contemporary to play this period piece, and too “Bronx” (for lack of a better word, and no offense meant to anyone from up north) to play a refined wealthy socialite. But it’s wonderful news that it will continue.
JTesla
January 31st, 2012
3:24 pm
Maybe Rodney can do a special “Where are they now” feature just before next seasons X-Factor and he can tell us what Robo-Host is doing. Nicole have it easy landing another gig, but Steve Jones… not so easy.
G
January 31st, 2012
3:28 pm
You guys are WAY too emotional in your opinions of LA. His job isn’t meant to be nice, just support his acts and offer a fair critique. I have to stick up for LA. He’s the only judge on XF and AI that’s qualified to offer a legitimate critique, based on his experience of producing mega pop and r&b stars. LA balances out the playing field, much like Shawn (Boyz II Men/Sing Off judge). Anything less than that is……AI.
DanJ
January 31st, 2012
3:55 pm
G, as I posted LA Reid signed all 3 of his guys so he must believe in them. The criticism of LA is based on several of his comments towards Josh, Melanie and Drew among others. He was not objective most of the time, in fact he was the least objective judge to contestants not his own IMO.
There’s no questioning his credentials as far as being a producer goes.
Deirdre
January 31st, 2012
3:58 pm
G..he was not even close to “fair” in his critiques. He was all about building up his singers and putting down everyone else’s singers. He is highly qualified at his job as a producer. He knows the business. He picks good talent. However, on X-F he did none of that.
Just because someone is good at one job doesn’t mean they’ll be good at a similar job.
JTesla
January 31st, 2012
4:00 pm
My problem isn’t with LA it’s with the format that he is put in where he has to “compete” with the other judges. He’s obviously successful, and he probably got to where he is by being competitive. Throw him into a competitive mix with Simon and he will try to win.
I feel that I understand it, I just don’t think that it makes for good television.
Jenny (the usual one)
January 31st, 2012
4:02 pm
G…. Well yes, my opinion of LA is based much more on his demeanor than on his experience. (And I fully admit it is an emotional opinion… that’s just how I roll.
)
There’s no question that he’s produced a lot of big names. And of course it’s not his job to be nice. But I just personally didn’t care for how he acted. It bothered me that he couldn’t bring himself to be objective, even when one of the other singers really deserved praise. And I will never enjoy watching someone be so unnecessarily rude.
Only my opinion, though.
Rickster
January 31st, 2012
5:02 pm
Unless they stop the inane bickering back and forth between the judges/mentors… it won’t matter who the judges are.
Only my opinion, though.
Only 27 hours till Idol!
Have a great evening, everybody.
Highlander
January 31st, 2012
5:25 pm
Not at all surprised that Steve Jones is out at X-F. …Very surprised that he may have any Twitter followers to tweet to about it!
Highlander
January 31st, 2012
5:28 pm
I love DanJ’s idea (props, dude!) of cutting X-F down to 3 categories and keeping the 4-person panel with Simon ONLY judging, not mentoring!
Then maybe we could see more of the old, honest, snarky Simon.
Rodney Ho
January 31st, 2012
5:39 pm
@Highlander. Hard to believe but Steve Jones has 97,000-plus Twitter followers.
Annie
January 31st, 2012
7:52 pm
JTesla, I agree. LA’s comments and criticisms were just as scripted as the other judges. That’s one more problem that the show has. If a contestant did well, then the other judges congratulated his or her mentor, instead of the contestant, and the reverse is also true, if they did poorly, then we were told that it was the mentor’s fault. Because of that the contestants looked like puppets, and the focus of the show was all about the mentors. The dialog among all of the judges/mentors seemed fake and forced, it was their way of trying to build up drama, but people don’t watch these types of shows to see the judges.
I do have to agree with LA about Skyscraper, it is a song that seems like it is meant for someone who is older than 15 or 16, even if the person who originally sung it is just 19.
Annie
January 31st, 2012
7:54 pm
Rodney Ho, Steve Jones is pretty funny on twitter. He has a great sense of humor. You should check him out on a concert that Beyonce did that aired on ITV1. He’s really relaxed, funny, and he even interacts with Beyonce and the audience. It’s like he’s a totally different person.
linny ,,,=^..^=,,,
January 31st, 2012
8:47 pm
Peeking in….GASP!…. look! it’s linny….and y’all have already said everything i wanted to say, so i’ll just agree with those i agree with, and laugh at those i don’t!!! no seriously! XF turned out to be truly truly overproduced, overhyped, and over judged. Deirdre said it best way back on the first page, imho. I love some of the suggestions y’all have made, similar to my own. But between the overproduction and the judges bickering and hogging the attention, i doubt i’ll spend much time on XF next run… we’ll see. you all know i like ALL the talent/reality shows, dancing and singing, so i may not be able to stay away. Speaking of those shows, i do believe i WON’T be watching AGT if what’s his vulgarface is indeed hosting — howie was hard enough to handle. but looking forward to this season of idol, even tho i’m not much in a position to blog with you guys during the show; i’ll be checking in afterwards and commenting post-show.
and tomorrow is my (#*(%& #th birthday so, i’m going out to dinner, after all these years hubby FINALLY got the hint and “asked me out”…
woohoo…. so enjoy the auditions tomorrow and i’ll try to start catching up and commenting a LITTLE more contemporary with you guys!!! i sure do miss you, tho’!!!
Seth T.
January 31st, 2012
11:09 pm
The good thing about any of the talent shows for an aspiring singer/artist is the TV exposure, the “Boot Camp” of working with pro musicians and/or performing before large audiences for experience in the big leagues.
Here’s a great and beautiful example of using the right stage setting, lighting and musicians to support the artist. Hope the link works ….
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cE1wwHwS70U&feature=related
G
February 1st, 2012
8:51 am
Yeah, maybe LA put on a little “extra” when it came to Drew. But it was only in retaliation to the UNFAIR critique of Marcus, coming from Simon. That kid is an r&b artist true and thru, and Simon didn’t have a clue. LA knew “exactly” who and what Marcus was, just like he knew who and what Drew wasn’t. IJS
JTesla
February 1st, 2012
11:08 am
“But it was only in retaliation to…”
Drew gets put down because Simon? I think that IS the complaint against LA. Very bad reason to add a little “extra”.
Deirdre
February 1st, 2012
12:12 pm
Seth…thanks, you just explained why I don’t like X-F
A 15 year old girl gets a bad critique, not because she sang badly, but because Simon gave LA’s guy a bad critique. Seriously???? That’s how we pick a winner???? That solidifies my point that the singers are just there as fodder for the judges’ competition.
Tbone
February 1st, 2012
1:09 pm
I didnt care for Steve as a host he just did’nt have that it factor.
Eric
February 1st, 2012
6:10 pm
Cheryl Cole’s run as judge on the first season on ‘X-Factor’ didn’t last all that long either… was replaced by Nicole, who got axed, along with Steve and Paula. It remains to seen on what the second season has in store… we may likely see guest hosts, along with a guest judge or 2… until permanent replacements are named.
There have been rumors of Cher and Elton John as possible candidates to judge on ‘X-Factor’. I could see Cyndi Lauper as another possible candidate to judge as well. We don’t have a clear picture at this time of possible candidates to host the show.
NBC summer reality show ‘America’s Got Talent’ is seeing a judge shake-up too… Talk radio shock jock Howard Stern replacing Piers Morgan.
I assume that ‘So You Think You Can Dance’ is coming back to FOX, with Nigel Lythgoe, Cat Deely, Mary Murphy, and company. I assume that ‘Big Brother’ will be back as well, but not sure if CBS will be producing the show in high-def… fans of CBS’ summer reality show also wanting new faces, and no returning contestants from previous seasons. We don’t know if NBC plans on reviving ‘Last Comic Standing’ as another summer reality show either.
It's me God
February 2nd, 2012
9:24 am
You prayed for the elimination of “What’s his face-host guy” and I delivered. I am working on delivering Mariah Carey as a new judge, but in our negotiations, she has demanded to have her assistant and make up team ascend to heaven when she does.
YouWho1
February 4th, 2012
9:01 pm
Thank god!
I am so relieved to know XFactor has cleaned house for next season. I hated the fake judging of Nicole and the ridicuously irritating British host Steve Jones (altho he’s probably a nice guy at home). I think Simon made alot of mistakes in allowing the stage managers & directors go WILD with the dancers, flashy displays and flashing lights. STUPID STUPID STUPID. So my hope Simon is this: Give it another try and remember how A.Idol got sucessful-by being as real as any show could be and not beefing up the stage stuff…Just let the singers SING!