'American Idol' contemplating changes?

lorraine scripa Thu, Apr 30, 2009 at 09:58 AM EST

I think that the auditions at the beginning of the show are outrageous. Anyone who gets into this competition should be filtered before they even get to the judges, without wasting air time, and without hurting anyone's feelings that can't carry a tune. Some contestants are deserving of being there, and others should be screened leaving the 4 judges with something to judge! There doesn't always have to be a show, making fun of kids who think they can sing. What a waste of time for them, their parents and family, inflicting pain on kids who think they can sing. Perhaps some day we can get back to the issue at hand, serious, God given talent, without all the ridicule, and hurt to innocent people. There is nothing I love more, than watching and appreciating the gifts in these kids, but it has turned into a freak show at the expense of others. It should be renamed, "American Ideal Talent".

Gail Thu, Jun 5, 2008 at 08:11 PM EST

Get rid of Paula for sure--change the voting--1 call per line. love Simon--he says it like it is-(but why does he wear a suit in UK--X-Factor --and a t-shirt in USA??)-go back to music from each decade--
and you who wrote about David Archuleta in a negative way--can't hear--that young man has the most pure voice and soul for music --he is amazing --just wait.
Okay--results show back to 30 minutes
and perhaps a 30 minute show--to get to know the contestants --background and backstage. I like Randy but tired of the same old lines from him.

Orange Thu, May 22, 2008 at 02:00 PM EST

1. Get rid of Ryan, he is annoying. 2. NEW JUDGES - I suggest Gene Simmons, Cher and Paul McCartney.
3. Judges should not be so obvious with their personal preferences (i.e. Archie who san the same boring songs every week)
4. Contestants should sing songs they pick and sing longer.
5. NEED NEW JUDGES - check it out dawg.

Orange Thu, May 22, 2008 at 01:59 PM EST

1. Get rid of Ryan, he is annoying. 2. NEW JUDGES - I suggest Gene Simmons, Cher and Paul McCartney.
3. Judges should not be so obvious with their personal preferences (i.e. Archie who san the same boring songs every week)
4. Contestants should sing songs they pick and sing longer.
5. NEED NEW JUDGES - check it out dawg.

csj Wed, May 21, 2008 at 04:40 PM EST

I WOULD LIKE TO SEE MORE ODERN SONGS. THESE ARE YOUNG ADULTS. I WOULS ALSO LIKE TO SEE A CHANGE IN JUDGES. THE SHOW IS GETTING BORING. HOWEVER, I LIKE THE WAY THE FINALE WAS DONE GREAT JOB. AND PLEASE ADD DIFFERENT STARS TO GIVE THERE ANALYT RLLY ENJOYED THAT

Bea Wed, May 21, 2008 at 01:39 AM EST

I would like to see the try-outs out of the show and more of Hollywood week. I also strongly believe that we do not have to have an even number of girls and guys for the top 12. If we could just stay with what the show is all about, 'Talent' then we should get people that can sing and there wouldn't be such a big gap of talent when we get to the top 5.
I also think we can do without Ryan and the judges should be rotated every week.
I believe AI needs to make some big changes in order to keep people's interest.

Tue, May 20, 2008 at 09:01 PM EST

one phone number + one vote YES!!!!!

Tue, May 20, 2008 at 09:00 PM EST

let them sing longer versions of songs, have the judges scores count with the audience, use more current mentors, this year the Idol contestants could not relate to the music mentors. Have the critiques give constructive criticism so the contestants can work on something
keep the goofy commercial songs they are funny and let us see more of hollywood!

Anita Frazier Tue, May 20, 2008 at 01:12 PM EST

Limit vote to one vote per phone number!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

fuzzy Tue, May 20, 2008 at 10:55 AM EST

On second thought:
Limit votes to 1 per phone number!

fuzzy Tue, May 20, 2008 at 10:42 AM EST

Suggestion: Limit votes to 10 per phone number. Get rid of Airhead Paula. Replace Airhead with a guest judge. Tell Randy to cool it with the gang signs. Give Randy a dictionary so he can learn new words. Inform Ryan that it's not HIS show. Contestants should be 18 or older. Finally, give the judges the opportunity to OVERRIDE who goes home. The show has become a teeny-bopper contest of who can dial the fastest for the goofiest contestant. And the really talented ones are voted off because they don't appeal to the kiddies.

Sam Sat, May 17, 2008 at 01:59 PM EST

i think that the judges should be able to over rule an veto some one going home cuz there are some that get booted befor there time and some that stay way to long jus cuz the way they look its not about that its about talent and a god given talen to sing not who you are or what you look like can you sing and make people feel it

Najie Culley Wed, May 14, 2008 at 07:00 PM EST

I think the people should have their say and vote but I don't believe it should be 100% our choice. 50% viewers and 50% judges. Some really talented people get voted off for personality or popularity reasons..has nothing to do with their talent.
I like the judges and of course Ryan Seacrest...He is American Idol. Above is the only change everything else is ok!

Cathy Wed, May 14, 2008 at 05:42 PM EST

Yes, shorten the results show - I tape it to skip through also

Also, how about whoever judges is cautioned not to be intentionally cruel to these performers? Really, while I may agree sometimes with Simon's take in general his excessive cruelty has no place on the show.

Judging should not be at the performers expense: Randy took a shot at one performer to "get back" at simon for a comment on "Randy's" performer. It was the semi finals - why toy with folk's lives like that?

I see the judges having their own agenda and as it gets closer to the finale they are just setting up their favorite 2. Sayesha is better than David A - just not a 17 year old cutie. Oh wel......time for some changes in producers focus for sure - thier pick lost it for sayesha before the votes began..

sherri Wed, May 14, 2008 at 02:07 PM EST

I would definitely get rid of Ryan Secrest and Paula Abdul, both are really sickening. Paula babbles on, can't really understand her critique have the time, Ryan on the other hand seems sarcastic and cocky. I think the judges should have a hand in scoring contestants. Idol has become a popularity contest rather than a true talent contest. I also think it is embarrassing for those who get voted off to have to sing. A lot of times they are too upset. As for the elimination process, it should only be half an hour. Keep Randy and Simon, they are the true professionals when it comes to judging talent.

Carol Yatsko Wed, May 14, 2008 at 06:07 AM EST

CHarge $1.00 per call or limit 1 call per telephone line

Kim Wed, May 14, 2008 at 03:09 AM EST

- Guest artists working with contestants should be the guest judge for the week.
- Make results show 30 min. I record the shows and watch them later instead of watching them live just so I can fast forward past all the boring stuff. It's a waste of my time.
- I like Paula and I know she feels that someone has to be positive, but how many times is she going to tell every contestant that they 'have what it takes', 'letting everyone see the real you' and all the other stupid remarks that she says to EVERYONE. She needs to be more detailed or why have her on the show.
- The judges can NOT be biased. If the judges can't be neutral, then fire them and get new ones that can.
- No repeating genre weeks just because one week seemed so great (the 2nd Beatles week should be a lesson to them).
- Randy should be forced to negatively comment on the artists that FORGET their lines (aka David A.) instead of constantly saying how everyone (but THAT person - David A) are so 'pitchy'.

pete tryborn Mon, May 12, 2008 at 08:58 AM EST

It is time to get a new panel of judges, randys idea of a singer is a screamer the big notes man, simons only talent is critizing others talent. paula is the only singer but she is in la la land.. let the contestants pick the songs they want to sing. get new judges that are vocalist.

cheryl Sun, May 11, 2008 at 04:37 PM EST

PLEASE SHORTEN THE RESULTS SHOW, UTTERLY BORING, THE JUDGES MAKE IT SO OBVIOUS WHO THEY WANT TO WIN TO THE POINT OF IT BEING OFFENSIVE. THE SHOW REALLY NEEDS A MAKEOVER!

La PuPPeT Sun, May 11, 2008 at 12:40 AM EST

Here's the thing AI has been going down the tubes for a little bit, if FOX does exactly as I tell them AI will number 1 again for a very long time.

1- lock Paula in a closet with a tall glass of water and a bottle of hydrocodone 625/10 mg instruct her to take a pill everytime she attempts to complete a sentance. ( With any luck we will ALL be free of her in under an hour)

2- Smack the living daylights out of Ryan keep smacking him until he realizes and confessess that "yes I am gay and I will never banter with anyone who is straight again"

3- For every time Randy Jackson mentions a dog pound or uses ebonics to express a thought release a rabid rottweiler to show him what a dog POUND (ing) really feels like.

4- Allow Simon to be the ONLY one who critiques the AI contestants since clearly he is the only one who can speak clearly and concisely. If he goes overboard pry the rottweiler off of Randy for a minute allow dog to chew on Simons ass for a moment.

This should work!

TopModel25 Thu, May 8, 2008 at 11:01 PM EST

IN ADDITION WHY THEY NEED TO SHOW MORE OF HOLLYWOOD WEEK IN IDOL because we will know how a contestant was picked to be on the Top 24!! Showing the contestant's performances during the Hollywood Week will vindicate how the judges choose the Top 24.

TopModel25 Thu, May 8, 2008 at 10:51 PM EST

My favorite American Idol episode every season is the Hollywood Week!!! More, more, more of this episode please! They should show every Top 24 contestant's performances in the theater rounds. I'm disappointed this season because they only showed glimpses of Carly, Michael, David A., David Cook, Syesha, etc performances in the Hollywood round but I think they should show more!!! I think Hollwood Week is very intense because it will show a contestant's capability & personality before the semifinals began. Hollywood Week is major drama!!

leda hoffman Thu, May 8, 2008 at 09:55 PM EST

Please, stop having the person who is voted off sing once again the song that was so "bad" that they were voted off because of it. The #2 worst part of the show, next only to Simon going over the top with some of the rude stuff he says.

leda hoffman Thu, May 8, 2008 at 09:55 PM EST

Please, stop having the person who is voted off sing once again the song that was so "bad" that they were voted off because of it. The #2 worst part of the show, next only to Simon going over the top with some of the rude stuff he says.

Wolfeyes7 Thu, May 8, 2008 at 08:10 PM EST

AI Makeover 101:
1. Nix the "Mosh" pit
2. Nix the "Callers"
3. Paula HAS to stay on point with clear, concise critique or she's OUT~
4. Randy HAS to critique in complete sentences - omit the "street slang"~
5. Simon HAS to critique in appropriate "constructive" sentences!
6. Judges have a percentage of vote on eliminations upon Final Four -
7. Voting System - limited to approximate number of calls/votes per household - (Stop the Tweens!)
8. Judging process: Have guest judges who give "real" constructive critiques w/Final 12 -
9. Mix the mentors w/diff eras/genres - have current ones like Gwen Stefani, John Mayer along w/well-established like Gladys Knight & Smokey Robinson~
10. Let the contestants choose their own songs every other week along w/keeping the instruments option~
11. Allow the contestants to sing "full" songs by eliminating the group songs~
12. More backstory on Final 24 - equal time for every contestant!
13. Bring back LaToya, Melinda, LaKeisha & Mandisa !

Wolfeyes7 Thu, May 8, 2008 at 08:10 PM EST

AI Makeover 101:
1. Nix the "Mosh" pit
2. Nix the "Callers"
3. Paula HAS to stay on point with clear, concise critique or she's OUT~
4. Randy HAS to critique in complete sentences - omit the "street slang"~
5. Simon HAS to critique in appropriate "constructive" sentences!
6. Judges have a percentage of vote on eliminations upon Final Four -
7. Voting System - limited to approximate number of calls/votes per household - (Stop the Tweens!)
8. Judging process: Have guest judges who give "real" constructive critiques w/Final 12 -
9. Mix the mentors w/diff eras/genres - have current ones like Gwen Stefani, John Mayer along w/well-established like Gladys Knight & Smokey Robinson~
10. Let the contestants choose their own songs every other week along w/keeping the instruments option~
11. Allow the contestants to sing "full" songs by eliminating the group songs~
12. More backstory on Final 24 - equal time for every contestant!
13. Bring back LaToya, Melinda, LaKeisha & Mandisa !

Bob Thu, May 8, 2008 at 05:16 PM EST

Randy has an obvious bias this time David A who has a very weak voice.
Paula has either a drug or alcohol problem and is as useful as a screen door on a submarine
One vote only, this is without doubt a popularity contest. Although they were not my favorites Carly,Michael and Amanda were far more talented and likely to go anywhere than Jason and the "two blondes".
Fire Seacrest, the way he dicked Michael Johns about was bogus, he is really irritating.

Opinion Thu, May 8, 2008 at 04:31 PM EST

-Over the summer, get Paula sober.
-Get Randy to stop 'pimping' his favorite (who is obviously David Archuleta). Last year, he must have said "And Jordin Sparks is only 17, dawg" 3 times each week.
-Have past Idols perform instead of random singers lie Maroon 5. There are some people (like Lakisha Jones and Melinda Doolittle) that I would love to hear sing on Wednesday.
-Give Randy a Thesaurus to help him come up with some more words to use.

Dee Thu, May 8, 2008 at 03:38 PM EST

Get rid of the fillers for the result shows. Just let it be a half an hour.
No more singing after getting eliminated. That's just silly.
No more broadway type nights. They are not looking for a broadway singer
Less bantering with Ryan. He's annoying when he does that.
Limit calls to 5-10. There's no way these people have that many fans. It shows when they start selling albums like Jordin Sparks.

I personally like the audition rounds. It's the funniest part of the show. I'm guilty of that.

MyOpinion Thu, May 8, 2008 at 02:36 PM EST

The remaining 4 contestants should be proof enough that the voting process is flawed! Open up on-line voting and LIMIT the votes to ONE per phone line and ONE per on-line vote! You may not end up with the quantity (51 million votes), but you may end up with better quality finalists!
P.S. Notice how Simon no longer says, "This is a singing competition," since he's probably resigned himself to the fact that it's not - it's now a popularity contest. :-(

GG Thu, May 8, 2008 at 02:27 PM EST

I would change...
1. RYAN SEACREST! Get him out of there!
2. 30 minute results shows...or even less!!
3. Eliminations based on a more DWTS feel, the judges have a weight on who goes home
4. Less weeks of auditions! Please. It's funny for a while, but then it gets old.

Jenny Thu, May 8, 2008 at 10:39 AM EST

1) Fire Ryan Seacrest - he's awful.
2) Get new judges. I am SO tired of "So, check it out," "That was a nightmare," and "Everybody loves you." They need constructive criticism, not the same old stupid comments. And I can't stand that Randy is pushing so hard for David A to win. What does he get out of this?
I think the show has run its course.

tara Thu, May 8, 2008 at 10:24 AM EST

Get Paula sober, or teach her how to speak. It is simply "unwatchable" TV, excruciatingly painful, when she is on.

austin texas Thu, May 8, 2008 at 10:06 AM EST

1. Reduce the outside demands on contestants so that they have time to prepare and aren't so exhausted that they don't do their best.
2. Judges' critiques should be constructive but not humiliating and mean-spirited. Paula needs training in how to articulate her thoughts more coherently.
3. No swaybots or clapping unless the contestant requests it.
4. 30 minute elimination show.

DC Thu, May 8, 2008 at 02:56 AM EST

* Two votes per phone line
* Judges vote who goes from the bottom two or three
* Make judges give corrective criticism, not just "that was horrendous"
* Keep track of juges previous comments and remind them when they contradict themselves

Georgia Baldwin Wed, May 7, 2008 at 04:18 PM EST

The change that I would most like to see is for Simon not to be so vicious with his comments regarding the contestants performances. He needs to know that there are many different ways of telling a person "They didn't do so well" without making them feel like worthless human beings!

scooby doo Wed, May 7, 2008 at 04:07 PM EST

Paula needs to go. Even when she's coherant, her comments are cornball. Please, someone that can critique realistically. PLEASE!

Sue Guidry Wed, May 7, 2008 at 02:36 PM EST

1. Get rid of Paula
2. Get rid of Paula
3. Get rid of Paula
4.AI is a singing competetion, not a popularity contest,people like Sanjaya and now Jason Castro should NEVER be given a pass when they clearly have NO TALENT. It is a waste of time.

hx2 Wed, May 7, 2008 at 12:25 PM EST

I hate how they can spend fifteen minutes showing one bad audition, and completely omit half of the top 24's auditions. And Paula needs a ten second time limit, so Simon (the only judge whose opinion matters, although even he is getting a little loopy these days. I suspect Paula has been sharing whatever drugs she's "not" taking with him) can get a chance to give some constructive advice. And, I think most importantly, each person should only be allowed to vote once. How many different people could there have been who actually wanted Brooke White to stay instead of Carly? That's all I have time to say for now. I didn't answer any of the questions asked, did I? Crap.

Lin Wed, May 7, 2008 at 09:33 AM EST

I would limit Paula's comments to either "Yes, I liked it" or "No, I didn't" - - - She goes off and gets whacko.

Lin Wed, May 7, 2008 at 09:33 AM EST

I would limit Paula's comments to either "Yes, I liked it" or "No, I didn't" - - - She goes off and gets whacko.

Al Meadows Wed, May 7, 2008 at 06:45 AM EST

1) Eliminate multiple votes - too many speed dialers posting thousands of votes versus real people's one vote
2) Vote for elimination is not a bad idea.
3) Love Paula but... time to move on. Suggest having guest judges or the mentors critique.
4) Mosh pit reaks!
5) Audition shows - MUST include all 24 finalist - but ok to show the 'most entertaining' zainies interspersed with the successful ones.
6) Call in segment - maybe once or twice a season (if that).
7) Get rid of group numbers - always worst part of the show.
8) Keep the show at 2 hours from week 1 all the way to the final to give remaining contestants longer songs, more songs, more interview and activities time. But 30 minutes on the results show tops.
9) On the results show... show the numbers... all of them.. from Best down to the final worst who goes home.

kmp iowa Wed, May 7, 2008 at 02:11 AM EST

ELIMINATE:
1) group song
2) guest singers
3) Q&A section
4) most of the audition stuff
ADD:
1) more singing time for ea idol
JUDGING/VOTING:
1) one guest judge ea. week
2) judges to select bottom 2
3) voters allowed one vote per phone line to vote for
which of the bottom 2 they want to save.
ELIMINATION SHOW:
1) footage of the past weeks activities for the Idols, ie, how they selected their songs, practise, warbrobe selection etc.
2) not such a long, drawn-out elimination, just do it!
3) let the eliminated Idol sing any song they want to.
OTHER THOUGHTS;
I like the mentor shows and wish more was shown on the interchange between the mentor and the Idol, more specific suggestions they have for the Idol, and more of the practise sessions with the mentor.
2) the judges need to stop talking when the idols are performing, I have seen a lot of rude behavior on the judges part this year, and I do not respect them for that.

Twocents Tue, May 6, 2008 at 12:44 PM EST

1)PLEASE return to 30-minute elimination shows! It's an obvious stretch to work it for 60-minutes when only the last 2 even matter! And stop trotting out the latest pop singer - not the point of the competition!
2) Get rid of "Idol Gives Back"! Although a completely worthy cause, it's run its course. The AI producers should make a substantial donation at the beginning of the season, and then have each vote cast throughout the season, count as $1 toward the cause, so that those "47 million votes" will go toward a good cause and not just to fill the coffers at AT&T.

kay Tue, May 6, 2008 at 11:44 AM EST

1. Limit votes per phone to 2 per evening
2. No contestants under 21 years of age
3. Change the system to the bottom 2 sing again on Wednesday and the 3 judges determine who goes home- this is a TALENT contest not a popularity contest!!!

Irina D. Tue, May 6, 2008 at 08:43 AM EST

1. Put some integrity into the voting process by limiting the # of votes from each phone number to two. And have an independent auditing firm monitor/report the stats weekly.
2. Get rid of the rhythmless arm-waving sorority mosh pit at the foot of the stage...just horrid.
3. Let the contestant pick one of their previous songs to sing when they get the boot instead of repeating the performance that got them boot in the first place.
4. Guest judge each week in Paula's place! Her "critiques" are predictable and rambling and incoherent, and add nothing.
5. Get rid of the group song and instead let the contestants have more time for their individual performances. 90 seconds of a song is too skimpy; they are just getting warmed up and it's over!
6. Do not accept contestants who have ever had a recording contract of any type. Making your own CD in your basement is fine...but if a company has paid you to release an album, you are not really an aspiring or amateur contestant any more.

dr Mon, May 5, 2008 at 05:10 PM EST

Replace Paula with a weekly musically talented singer, she has run her coarse. I find myself wanting to finish her sentences, enough already. Two votes per phone line, disconnects the number after two. Let contestants pick their own songs after week six, some themes do not fit half the singers, ex: Neil Diamond, Celine, Elton John, Barabra Steisand, Rod Stewart, who can sing their music except them.

sar Sun, May 4, 2008 at 04:12 PM EST

expand the age range to older contestants! (maybe up to 40?)

ddekrut Sun, May 4, 2008 at 10:30 AM EST

No more kids...let them develop
Limit the vote count for each contestant.
Emphasize to the American public more that it's a singing competition. Remind them that they need to choose who they are going to spend their money on.
Duct tape the mosh pit's hands behind their backs....geez how cheesy
Let the losers who go home pick the song they thought would have won the contest for them. It's only right...
And just because the judges don't choose who leaves and stays, out of freaking respect stop talking while someone is performing and pay attention. Your critiques, because you are "professionals" lose their validity when you don't pay attention. How rude

WasABigFan Sat, May 3, 2008 at 05:33 PM EST

1) Run an honest talent competition for amateurs. No more plants, please.
2) Have a third party disclose the voting totals/results each week.
3) Show the auditions/back stories from EACH contestant that makes the Top 24. The viewers need to know who EVERY contestant is and not the ones the producers chose to showcase/favor.
4) Have American Idol donate a good percentage of their profits to Idol Gives Back (there's plenty to spare, isn't there?). Keep it as a simple announcement and be done with it. We'll applaud you.
5) Let EACH contestant choose their own songs every week.
6) Require that the judges watch the live performance (and not talk while contestants are singing...rude), and comment specifically on that performance. There should be no prewritten critiques as they do not pertain to the LIVE performance.
7) Get rid of the pit of sorority chicks so the judges can hear the singers.
8) Keep honesty as your best policy.

Mary Watkins Sat, May 3, 2008 at 01:55 PM EST

Post voting results(numbers)on the website. Get an independent auditor to audit results from time to time and post the findings on the website.
Eliminate pure humiliation of the contestants on the show - i.e. "bottom 3". Anyone who watches just to see that kind of ugliness can switch to watching "Moment of Truth".

Idolneedshelp Fri, May 2, 2008 at 07:43 PM EST

I agree that alot needs to be changed on AI and I agree with most that has been said. I would add just a couple of things:
1) Do NOT have the contestant going home repeat the same song as they leave that presumably got them voted off in the first place!! It's humiliating for the contestant and just sad to watch.
2) Bring back the hometown visits. I did enjoy those and thought they added another dimension to the finalists.
3) I absolutely agree with bringing back the "transformations". Simon's comment to Carly that she needed "to have a word with whoever was dressing her" just highlighted that this season's contestants seem to be dressing themselves and apparently doing their own hair. Otherwise, we may have seen Jason in at least one different outfit, David Cook with a better hairstyle (or hair that at least had style), and Brooke in clothes that don't look like her mother picked them out for her! Where's the STYLE??

Monique R. Fri, May 2, 2008 at 06:24 PM EST

1) There should be a way to vote against someone.
2) Paula seems sweet, but her manners are awful. She has got to stop interrupting and talking over people Also, listening to her babble can be excrutiating. She needs to learn to be brief, then be quiet.
3) Conversely, Randy's gotten so brief that his comments have devolved into verbal shorthand, his half dozen standard reactions summed up in one-word blurts. Very predictable.
4) GUEST JUDGES! It changes the whole dynamic.
5) The mentors can be great, and seasoned performers give better advice than flash-in-the-pans, obviously. But they must be cooler than Neal Diamond. Maybe the mentoring could be a once-to-twice a season event with, say, Aerosmith or Madonna, and the Neal Diamonds could be GUEST JUDGES. (Gwen Stefani & Mariah were great, btw.)
6) I like the themes, but w/less mentoring, the idols could be able to pick from much broader catagories. "Broadway", instead of ALW specifically.
7) Never again repeat a theme.

Deedle Fri, May 2, 2008 at 12:26 PM EST

1) Require that the judges give their undivided attention while the singers perform.
2) FIRE THE PRODUCERS
3) Anyone with a connection to Randy, Clive, or the producers should be banned from competing in the competition (ie, Carly, Kristy, Jordin).
4) The sorority girls....get rid of them.
5) Stop playing favorites with certain contestants (ie, Archie)
6) No more group numbers. Talk about humiliating the contestants!
7) No more celebrities plugging their latest album....boring!
8) Give us a break and stop the celebrity stroke fest that is Idol Gives Back. It's a great cause but does not live up to its name. Have American Idol actually Give Back a good portion of their profits to the cause.

Rick Fri, May 2, 2008 at 10:17 AM EST

Keep the auditions but, limit the number of weeks of them. Get Paula into aa or something. Limit the number of phone votes. Don't let contestants butcher the Beatles again!!!!!!!

ange Fri, May 2, 2008 at 08:19 AM EST

I forgot to add, gag Paula, or at least time her, way too long winded.

ange Fri, May 2, 2008 at 08:15 AM EST

I think this week we've seen how much the judges actually "think". Lots needs to change, but more power to the judges, means more scripting by the powers that be already.

iowa fan Fri, May 2, 2008 at 01:51 AM EST

A,A,A,A,A,A,A, I,I,I,I,THINK I,I,I,I, JUST, A,A,A,A,A,WANT, I,I,I,I,I TO A,A,A,A,A,YOU MAKE ME A,A,A,I,I,I,JUST A,A,A,A,I LOVE YOU. ENOUGH IS ENOUGH GET PAULA OUT OF THERE, AND ADD SOMEONE THAT CAN COMPLETE A LINE.IS SHE ON DRUGS OR JUST DRUNK MOST OF THE TIME.AND YES LIMIT THE VOTE TO ONE PER HOUSEHOLD SO THE TEENIE BOOPERS WITH SANJYA SYNDROME CANT MAKE THE WINNER WITH A CUTTIE PIE VOTE.I ALSO THINK THEY SHOULD ADD A FOURTH JUDGE A REGULAR AVERAGE PERSON, THE ONE THAT ACTUALY WILL BUY THE MUSIC. I WOULD LOVE TO COMMENT ON THE PERFOMCES. OH YEAH AND GET RID OF PAULA!!!!!!!

jewel Thu, May 1, 2008 at 11:10 PM EST

1) enough of the has beens!! Dolly Parton week?? Give me a break!
2) Allow the contestants to choose a song of their choice at least 75% of the time.
3) Fire Paula!!! She is pathetic, with her rambling.
4) Replace Randy with someone who knows more about the english language than jive.
5) I agree, 1/2 hour results show, no more drawn out performances from those who have already made it in the industry.
6)Clear the screaming ding bats out of the front rows!! ( so annoying)
7) Limit each caller to 1 vote, no more kids texting for 2 hours straight for the "hot" guy who cant sing.
8) Less side-show crap and more competition, isnt that what the show is about anyway?

Frank Thu, May 1, 2008 at 08:49 PM EST

1) Get rid of the shrieking sorority girls in the pit.
2) Don't let the producers make the final song selection for the contestants. It's too easy to manipulate how a contestant will do.
3) 1/2 hour results show.
4) Get rid of the celebrity element in the show. The show is about the contestants.
5) Limit the call-in questions to the contestants. The judges get enough air time. (Last night was just WEIRD)
6) Showcase each person that makes the Top 24. It looks so manipulative when the producers don't do this.
7) I think the show could use some new blood/producers.
8) Be honest with the viewing audience.
9) Be honest with the viewing audience.
10) Be honest with the viewing audience.

josh Thu, May 1, 2008 at 07:32 PM EST

First thing is first...LIMIT EVERY PHONE # TO 1 VOTE!!!! The fact that Jason Castro and his boring act is still on the show proves how dangerous a 15 year old girl and her cell phone can be. Next, can Paula!!!! Its painful just watching her try to complete a sentence of babble. Inform Randy that there is more to a vocabulary than " Yo...check it aout dawg". Leave Seacrest alone.....he is the only real entertainment on the show itself. Allow the judges a certain percentage of the final vote on the contestant, otherwise what good are they anyway? This could turn the show back into singing contest rather than a popularity one. ONE LAST THOUGHT....STOP REFERING TO THOSE SCREAMING IDIOTS IN THE FRONT ROW AS A "MOSH-PIT"...unless you have attended a KORN or SLIPKNOT concert, you have no idea what one is!!!!

Joyce Thu, May 1, 2008 at 07:11 PM EST

Please remember that there are many of us over 45 who watch the show. I'm 73 & enjoy it even though I am not familiar with the songs post 1980. I do agree that I don't favor the theme nights & feel each contestant should be allowed to pick songs to fit their genre. I also agree with the comments about improving the manner of dress.

jane Thu, May 1, 2008 at 06:26 PM EST

Get rid of the theme weeks and the old stars. Let each singer do what they do in their own style, not try to perform songs from singers we don't care about.

Erin Thu, May 1, 2008 at 05:11 PM EST

Obviously, the voting needs to change. Now that the tweens are obsessed with this show, we cannot allow them all to vote two straight hours for the hottest contestant. Either limit the number of votes or incorporate the judges.

*People have been saying one vote per line, but please make it more so I can vote for someone other than who my mom votes for.*

Kim Thu, May 1, 2008 at 04:04 PM EST

1. Allow idols' studio verions of songs to be played on the radio between "show-weeks".

2. One vote per phone line.

3. Rather than Idol Gives Back being 1 show per season, why not have every phone vote be a .05 cent donation? Imagine the amount of money that would be raised?

4. No more golden oldies - let idols choose songs based on genre.

Ryan Thu, May 1, 2008 at 02:48 PM EST

I think that a big change to something closer to the Rockstar model would be in order. Simply put, let America vote on the bottom three and let the judges decide who goes home. Then for the finally let it be purely numbers of votes. Then Carly doesn't go home so soon. Kristy Lee Cook doesn't stick around too long. And Michael Johns doesn't get screwed quite so badly.

Andrew M Thu, May 1, 2008 at 12:41 PM EST

Reduce the reliance on yesteryears songs. The Producers are showing their age. No doubt there's a role for great 'old' songs but the people who vote...and therefore keep it all alive... want to hear more contemporary stuff...There's no point in the judges moaning on about cabaret and Broadway if the material the contestants are given is coated in musty velvet.

Thu, May 1, 2008 at 12:34 PM EST

I have an idea.....FIRE THE PRODUCERS!

Collie Thu, May 1, 2008 at 12:33 PM EST

LOL about the Bengal tiger leaping into the mosh pit. I would watch the show again to see this!

Di Thu, May 1, 2008 at 12:31 PM EST

Carly had connections to Randy Jackson when she had her record contract at 15. This should have been disclosed by her and the show. As a result, viewers like myself do not think this was fair. Do you think it was fair?

JazzyJake Thu, May 1, 2008 at 12:27 PM EST

1) Replace Randy and Paula.
2) Impartial judging.
3) Technical judging (at least 1 judge)
4) 18 years and older contestants
5) Limit calls per phone
6) Generic themes OK, geezer mentor themes out
7) No results show or 1/2 hour.
8) Cut the sob-story auditions filler
9) Cut the cheesy song-contest song
10) Amateurs only - please!

Thu, May 1, 2008 at 12:13 PM EST

Please....Carly was 15 when she first had that recording contract. She should be penalized for that?

Pat Thu, May 1, 2008 at 11:44 AM EST

AI has been disappointing this year--too many bazarre AI wannabees in the beginning. Would like to see more of the serious, talented contestants--but of course, it's all about the ratings. Contestants should be required to sing various style songs because the competition should be about the person who has the most skill and talent when challenged beyond their comfort level and/or style. Until a singer gets established, it's the record company/producer anyway who determines what and how a song is sung so the American Idol winner should be able to prove that they can handle this challenge. Would like to see updates on how previous non-winners have fared (i.e. Melinda Doolittle/Lakisha, etc.). I would like to see some criteria posted (most versatile artist, best stage presence, best vocals, etc)that would aid the American public in choosing contestants for their cuteness. One vote per household. Get rid of Jason.

IT'S BORING Thu, May 1, 2008 at 11:14 AM EST

- False overexcitement from the "most pit"... the coaching to that area to "act excited" is so obvious. "Wave your arms. Scream every chance you get." It's all a MAJOR turnoff.

- Themes and mentors are decades old... nobody cares about them! Stop it already.

David Thu, May 1, 2008 at 10:40 AM EST

Instead of voting for who you think is best, vote for who you think should be eliminated. This would have a dramatic effect and would be fairer to the better perdformances since their votes wouldn't be split up.

David Thu, May 1, 2008 at 10:40 AM EST

Instead of voting for who you think is best, vote for who you think should be eliminated. This would have a dramatic effect and would be fairer to the better perdformances since their votes wouldn't be split up.

OBI Thu, May 1, 2008 at 10:32 AM EST

Change the voting system.Only a certain # of votes per phone line and computer.
Let the singers sing whatever style they want. Theme nites are rediculous.When you buy a CD(unless its NOW)the singer sings a certain style.Theme nites put a disadvantage to some singers.
Recruit new judges.With new original ideas for the singers.
DO NOT let the judges sit in on dress rehearsals.They have an unfair advantage or disadvantage.That's why it is called a DRESS rehearsal.Even real stars do dress rehearsals for concerts to get rid of the bugs in their own performance.
Stop all the nonsense banter btween Ryan and everyone(especially Simon).
And PLEASE get rid of the mosh pit. They disrupt the flow of the singers with their clapping and swaying of hands.They even get in the way of the camera(they did the other nite).
I don't know if there is anything that would really make this show more enjoyable.Let's see if they can stop being arrogant and listen to the viewers. Their # is 1800PUHLEZEHELPUS

Mary Smith Thu, May 1, 2008 at 09:53 AM EST

I think the judges should have part of the vote for the final te. This is beginning to be "just" a popularity contest or who is the "cutest". There have been much better singers than some of the final five that got kicked off. Do it like Dancing with the Stars! You would eliminate the votes for the nicest eyes and actually end up with the best vocals and performances.

Gina Thu, May 1, 2008 at 09:48 AM EST

1. Give everyone a fair shot with equal tv time. Everyone's backstory should be a part of the show, not just some. Not only is this a singing competition, but its also reality tv. Part of AI's charm in the earlier seasons was watching ordinary people's journey unfold.
2. I sense a theme throughout the comments (lol)... and I agree... NO MORE ARM WAVING.. (As a product of the 90's I will not call THAT a mosh pit).
3. Someone make Paula's drink even stronger. Maybe it will knock her out and she will finally shut up.
4. More Hollywood week. I like the flashback idea. Keep reminding us at home why the contestants were chosen for the top 24.

Tony DErasmo Thu, May 1, 2008 at 09:38 AM EST

1 of 2 things will make the show better. either

a) Have American vote and pick the worst Two then have the judges vote which should go home.

OR

b) Have the judges pick the worst of three on Tuesday night and those three are the only people America can vote for.

this elimanates the popular vote (cute guys stay theory) and saves the real good singers to the end

Rick Thu, May 1, 2008 at 09:11 AM EST

1. It's tIme to change the judges whose comments are getting too repetitive.
2. Only show the good tryouts. The rest insult my intelligence and are a waste of time.
3. Don't make the loser sing one more time after being cast off the show.
4. Shorten the results show to a half hour. It wastes too much time.
5. Dump the mosh pit!

DawnC Thu, May 1, 2008 at 07:46 AM EST

1) Dittos to Jake's Idol Gives Back review. To Show Execs: Stop the celebrity stroke fest and quietly donate some of your own money.
2) Release a Bengal tiger into the mosh pit and put it out of its misery.
3) Vote for who you want OFF the show.
4) Let the contestants be themselves and pick songs that match their style.
5) 1/2 hour results show.
6) If you MUST have the call-in questions, HAVE QUESTIONS FOR THE CONTESTANTS INSTEAD OF SIMON/JUDGES. The judges get enough attention on the show. (That "first kiss" woman with Simon was creepy!)
7) IF the Bengal Tiger doesn't off the mosh pit, release a black bear into the pit of flailing arms.
8) Disqualify people that know Randy/Judges/Producers. If you MUST have these people, DISCLOSE THAT THEY HAVE CONNECTIONS so the audience can judge them fairly.
9) Scale down the auditions to a week and show more of Hollywood Week.
10) Be honest with the viewing audience or you will continue to lose your precious ratings.

Nadine Thu, May 1, 2008 at 05:51 AM EST

1) Auditions are waaaay too long. Even though some are fairly entertaining, they really need to skip most of the drama. I think it would be a good idea if they just start off from Hollywood Week and have flashbacks from the auditions possibly.

2) One vote per phone, household or whatever. Its a singing competition people, and don't get me started on that.

3) Why are the themes so ancient? O.K, I'm a teenager and I don't mind listening to songs from the 60's and 70's, but they do it so often! A Neil Diamond Week? They shouldn't be too specific. If its a Neil Diamond week, at least have them pick songs from his genre rather than the songs he sang himself. Have them sing recent songs too like this year's top billboard or songs from the 90's. I'm quite sure not all contestants are content with some of the themes they did.

4) The judges should have a liitle control of the elimination too.

Clio Thu, May 1, 2008 at 04:02 AM EST

Replace "Crypt Keeper" Nigel Lythgoe with a producer who actually has his pulse on what the American public likes. Ramp up the budget for the stylists--what happened to the great clothes contestants used to wear? I feel like I'm watching a fashion show at K-Mart. No more Irish/ Australian/ Lithuanian ringers--it's AMERICAN IDOL, for hell's sake.

Jake Thu, May 1, 2008 at 03:58 AM EST

Stop with the self-aggrandizing crapfest that is "Idol Gives Back"--the producers make enough dosh off the regular show, they can just hand over a fat wad of cash to poor people without having to crow about it. That idiot extravaganza with "stars" like the idiotic, maniacal Mary Murphy from SYTYCD (Nigel, sorry, do you really think anyone LIKES her?) is downright painful to watch.

Holly Thu, May 1, 2008 at 03:52 AM EST

Seacrest "out."
Mosh pit out.
Dinosaur mentors out--I'm 53, and these fossils are too old for me to relate to--what demographic are they aiming for? My 99-year-old grandmother and her cronies? SHEESH.

Jeni Thu, May 1, 2008 at 03:49 AM EST

Continue to provide whatever it is that Paula is smoking/ ingesting/ snorting; she makes a fine role model for the kids today.

Patrick Thu, May 1, 2008 at 02:55 AM EST

My changes
- One vote per call
- No mosh pit
- All contestants must be over 18
- No more call in comments/questions
- Get rid of the themes, let the contestants do what works best for them
- Go back to the old way Hollywood week was
- Results show down to 30 minutes
Break ad deal with Ford because, well, Ford sucks. Go Chevy.

Sonja Thu, May 1, 2008 at 02:50 AM EST

love Simon - Simon tells the truth- and sometimes the truth hurts....sooo glad Brooke finally got voted off

Maria Vencil Thu, May 1, 2008 at 02:34 AM EST

The biggest problem with the show this year is that the judges clearly had their picks, and they could do little or no wrong. Forgetting the lyrics and false starts get a pass; but Syesha - they just didn't want her. She was rarely treated fairly. They clearly had predetermined the final 3 and judges went all over EXTRA and other t.v. shows to slant the vote. This wouldn't happen on Jeopardy or any other legitimate game show or contest. Why watch when regardless of performance comments are almost always the same. The judges have lost their legitimacy. And Jesus Christ Superstar was totally out of place - Carly was encouraged to sing it - and couldn't insult the guest coach. Hated it!!!!

Pat Thu, May 1, 2008 at 02:27 AM EST

1) Skip the banter between judges.... it's so contrived, and it only encourages them to make irrelevant comments that are not constructive or credible
2) Start in Hollywood, and keep the flashbacks pertinent--no more mentally ill wannabes, please! It's much more entertaining to go back and see how the finalists fared in the beginning.
3) Somebody tell Ryan that he's really not very funny when he tries to be. He's more of a hoot when he's taking himself seriously!
4) Fine Simon a large sum every time he uses a phrase beginning with "I'm not trying to be...... rude, or mean, or whatever." He's obviously been told that's what he's being paid to do, and it's really getting tired.
5) Eliminate the waving "mosh pit"--pretty pitiful.
6) Restrict voting to a reasonable number per person to determine the bottom three, then let the judges decide which of the three is eliminated that week.
7) Eliminate the dopey questions on results night, and reduce the show to 30 minutes.

Jill Thu, May 1, 2008 at 01:30 AM EST

My favorite part is Hollywood Week and they cut it way too short. Get rid of the long boring auditions. Focus more on the most volatile part of the show. I don't like the phone call in; I don't think it was a good addition. Bring the most successful contestants back to the show more often, for example Carrie Underwood/Kelly Clarkson/etc. The song choices are abysmal for this year. Choose songs people know or mentors that people are more familiar with. The year with La Toya London was great. They had Elton John and Gloria Estefan. Incredible song choices. I hate this years theme of songwriters. The focus is more on the contribution of songs rather than the artist itself. Bring back theme weeks like the 80s or famous love songs through the decades. Instead of singing the mentor's songs just have them be what they are - a mentor for that genre of music. Make it impossible for people to get in thousands of votes with the speed dial system.

Dana Thu, May 1, 2008 at 01:19 AM EST

(1) Continue to allow instruments -- this promotes artists, not just singers
(2) Get rid of the swinging arms in the mosh pit
(3) Add more contemporary mentors like Justin Timberlake
(4) Allow internet voting

Beverly Thu, May 1, 2008 at 01:08 AM EST

1) Get rid of the 'cheering pit'
2) Allow the judges to have a % of the vote and
3) Limit the number of votes any person can make--letting it go wild doesn't get us the best it gets us the person who has friends with autoredial, speed-dial, etc.
4) I think the mix of judges is fine
5) Mix up the mentors a bit - some from older times and some more recent - but don't cut out all the older ones - some of the best music comes from before the 70s.
6) Eliminate the call in and audience question time
7) Don't extend the time showing the auditions -
Thanks for making a difference!

Sebrinna Thu, May 1, 2008 at 01:03 AM EST

HAVE THE CONTESTANTS GET DRESSY LIKE THEY USE TO. LET THEM GO BACK AND SPOT LIGHT THEM IN THEIR HOME TOWN.RANDY IS TELLING THE TRUTH MORE. SIMON THEY MAY NOT LIKE YOU AND AT TIMES YOU CAN BE HARSH BUT TELL THE TRUTH ANYWAY. THAT'S WHAT'S WRONG WITH THE PEOPLE IN THE WORLD, NO ONE WANTS TO TELL THE TRUTH. LET'S PUT IT THIS WAY IF YOU CAN REALLY SING YOU WILL MAKE IT ANYWAY.You need a better voting system.These tweens are looking at the cute guys they don't care if they can't sing. Cute can't sell songs and records and put food on the table. A lot of votes come from little girls.My ten year old had a cell phone when she was eight. In closing last year was one of the best AMERICAN IDOL SHOWS. THIS YEAR IS THE PITS EXCEPT FOR DAVID COOKE

ron dean Thu, May 1, 2008 at 12:54 AM EST

it seems to me that the show is all about simon . he needs to go he is too harsh on the contestants. does he really know anything about music like paula and ryan . simons cruel and too hard on the contestants which brings their moral down.

tim Thu, May 1, 2008 at 12:50 AM EST

keep paula she's a hoot
no mosh pitters
no boring audience questions
vote for the worst performer to leave
tone down ryan's attitude towards simon, it's getting old
let the singers pick their own songs from a theme week
bring back the home town visit
lose america gives back

Sebrinna Thu, May 1, 2008 at 12:43 AM EST

Ilike Paula but,she takes up a lot of time saying nonthing. She can't tell the truth about some contestants. Some of them just can't cut it at times. I would rather you tell me the truth anyday than a lie. When it is all said and done, it shows that she didn't tell the truth when a lot of the contestants don't make it in the music business. When the judges go from city to city she will tell people they don't have what it takes and even make fun of them. SO when they get on the show and began the compition, Stop trying to straddle the fence because some of them had a bad day and sang a bad song. I do think that the contestants this year were the worst I have heard. There was some good talent out there and the judges didn't pick them this year. WHY do the judges pick a little puppy dog kid each year? And the minorities are like on the horror movies they are the first to die. Let's tell the truth.I think they choose not to get the best of them so they won'tlast that long and get voted off

ron dean Thu, May 1, 2008 at 12:41 AM EST

I believe that the winner has been decided . I'm still in shock that jason castro is still in the hunt .I beleive the american people should not have a say in the judging process .no wonder our society is screwd up . good look brook keep yuur head hi . you was better than castro .

Sonja Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 11:39 PM EST

i vote to keep Paula -she's fun to watch - whether it be jumping up to shake her groove thang - or to see Simon's face when he's trying to figure out what the hell she's talking about - or just sitting at home watching her trying to form her thoughts - she's like that crazy relative who makes the gatherings memorable and funny - in a twisted sort of way