American Idol – The Show that Won’t Die

Anything that resonates with the public in such a huge way fascinates me. Why do some terrible TV shows have high ratings and terrific ones get canceled? I think, for the most part, when anything becomes a pop culture phenomenon it is primarily good fortune that gets it there.
Which brings me to “American Idol.” “Idol” started up again recently, as I’m sure you’re all aware. And I, like most of you, found myself parked in front of the TV for the eighth year in a row. Guilty pleasure indeed. It’s campy, ridiculous, and pretty impressed with itself, and I still can’t stop watching it.

For what it’s worth, “American Idol” is actually a really great sociological experiment. It holds up a mirror to America: we are average, odd, baffling, delusional, and every once in awhile, actually worth listening to. It showcases failure, joy, loss and dreams, all in a tight, neat package. I think the reason “American Idol” continues to draw viewers is people really want to believe that there are special people out there, among us, with potential just waiting to be tapped. So as long as “American Idol” remains a study in American optimism, I think they can still count on me - on my couch.”