'American Idol' contemplating changes?

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

Lisa Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 11:22 PM EST

I don't think getting rid of the themes totally would help solve anything. There still needs to be an out reach to an audience of multiple generations. The contestants are young. The songs they would sing would more than likely be the most current songs, ostracizing many who are 30ish and older. Maybe going with more decades and genres.

Get rid of the mentors...are you kidding? We may not be impressed with it, but it could be a participant's dream to meet Neil Diamond or Mariah Carey. It would be nice, however, if the mentor was purely doing it out of the goodness of his/her heart and not trying to promote themselves!

Paula seems to really need rehab...BADLY! Get the lady help or replace her.

Debbie Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 11:17 PM EST

1. Limit the number of votes per phone to 5-10 or narrow by the number of contestants still on. Please keep it as voting for the one(s) you want to stay.
2. Shorten audition week - eliminate the crazies, those with abusive language, and the heart-broken in tears ones. Watching that is not entertaining.
3. Get rid of the hand waving mosh pit!
4. Judges, would like to see a little more constructive criticism or complements. In other words, giving contestants honest, specific feedback on their performances. Comments like "it just doesn't do it for me" is not particularly helpful.
5.Ryan, judges, be respectful to contestants. Cut the favoritism, listen while the contestants perform instead of talking among yourselves. Ryan, if you're going to send some one home on Give Back night, don't give false hope. And Paula, you gave a negative critique a song that hasn't been sung. Have the grace to apoligize.

Sonja Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 10:28 PM EST

just thought of another great mentor - WHAM! and that dude that writes all those Disney movie songs. That week all the contestants could dress up like the character who sings (i.e. Jason Castro as Ariel the Little Mermaid....cute.

Sonja Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 10:22 PM EST

1. Replace Ryan with the smarmy Constantine. 2. Move Simon to Paula's chair and Randy to Simon's chair so Simon will be in the middle. 3. Or- put Paula on Simon's lap like a ventriloquist and his dummy so something clever will come out of her mouth 4. Make Simon get up and dance with Paula once in a while. 5. Pick better mentors - the Monkees, Cher, Tiffany, Michael Bolton, Reba McIntyre, wow - the list could go on and on - don't ever let the idols or the judges pick songs for them - 6. Have Randy substitute "cat" for dawg - "wow, cat, that rocked" 7. Whenever Simon and Ryan get into their junior high banter - have Dr.Phil there to intervene and get them back on track and kiss and make up 8. When Paula just can't contain herself and has to get up dance make her get up on stage and dance around the contestant singing (with or without Simon) 9. Can't think of any more things dawg.

David Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 10:09 PM EST

1. Get rid of Idol Gives Back. Notice how ratings have gone down since they started it?
2. More current mentors. Neil Diamond? Dolly Parton? Mary J. Blige! Timbaland! Rihanna!
3. Paula has no good critiques. Can't understand her most of the time.
4. 30 mins. for results night.
5. Move it to a bigger venue once in a while, like a stadium. That would be awesome!

bw Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 10:03 PM EST

1. Get rid of the dopes in the mosh pit. This is turning me off almost more than anything else! It's getting impossible to watch the show because of them.
2. Stop it with the outdated, irrelevant mentors and theme weeks like Neil Diamond, Andrew Lloyd Weber, Dolly Parton, and the Beatles. What year is this? Nobody under the age of 45 cares! The biggest goof was devoting TWO weeks to the Beatles. BO-RING!
3. Half hour results show, and less commercials during performance shows. I DVR all shows now and watch them later on so I can skip past everything.
4. If Paula is going to stay with the show, please give her speaking lessons and instruct her to stop babbling nonsense. It's getting tiresome after 7 years.
5. I enjoy some of the "tension" between Ryan and Simon. There's bigger problems with the show than this.
6. The audition shows were great in earlier seasons, but now it's just too much. The flashbacks idea is better.
7. Again, relevant themes and mentors only!

Delray Girl Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 09:41 PM EST

Okay...I'd love to give a few suggestions.
1. Dump the wavy armed mosh-pitters...ugh!
2. Vote for who you want to dump, not keep...this would throw AT&T earnings off, so I don't think it will happen.
3. Make the judges comment on the LIVE performance...ban them from rehearsals.
4. Shorten results night to 30 minutes.
5. For God's sake get rid of the mentors and let the singers pick their own songs...I'm tired of hearing from old singers trying to self promote. We need fresh song choices based on the singers wants.

Jordan Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 09:36 PM EST

No top girls and top boys at the beginning

Jordan Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 09:26 PM EST

I think that the judges score should count toward who stays and who goes, so it isn't just a sexy contest. Also, online voting would be great.

DANIELLA Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 09:16 PM EST

siesha cannot sing...she does not read music and is always flat....it's painful to listen to her. if she weren't black, she'd be gone....but lately in america we have to suck up to blacks 24/7

DANIELLA Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 09:16 PM EST

siesha cannot sing...she does not read music and is always flat....it's painful to listen to her. if she weren't black, she'd be gone....but lately in america we have to suck up to blacks 24/7

Karen L. in St. Louis MO Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 09:14 PM EST

This year the voting is atrocious. Jason (Dreadlock dredgery)should have been voted off weeks ago. He's failing vocals are a tragedy to this competition, & now another beautiful & talented REAL singer was voted off again, because Jason's idiot fans keep voting for him because of his stupid hair & smile. There should be an overseer on the voting process or the judges can have a say-so on who should go each week, regardless of what the teeny-bopper voters say. Those teeny-boppers don't have an ear for talent, they're only judging by what someone looks like....
ANYHOW,....that's what I'd like to change on IDOL.
IDOL is a great platform for these singers, SINGERS,....not a platform for what one looks like.
thanks,
Karen L. in St. Louis, MO

HC Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 09:11 PM EST

I think what American Idol is doing so far works. Dont just Start in hollywood week. Half of the reason people whatch the show is so they can laugh at the bad people.

jdy Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 08:51 PM EST

Have songs that are more relevant to today's music. LIMIT the votes per person!

Sharon Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 08:49 PM EST

To improve my American Idol experience,,,
1. Start with Hollywood week.
2. I don't want to see all those awful "let's make fun of you because you can't sing" clips - those are humiliating and unnecessary and I switch channels as soon as the come on.
3. Show less of the judges and of Ryan. I don't watch it to see the judges banter, or to see Ryan pretend to be a star. I watch it to watch the singers, not the judges or Ryan.
4. Stop making them sing from a list of yester-year songs. Let them sing songs of their contemporaries, of their choice. Neal Diamond, Dolly Parton - all the others - all toooo far outside what I want to hear them sing. If they chose to sing it, fine with me. But let them chose the song and the genre.
5. And please, producers, stop manipulations performers performances in order to get the results you want. That's how it looks, more so this season than any other.

I'm so bored this season... change it or I might not return next year.

Sharon

tuneman Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 08:09 PM EST

1. stop letting the other two idiots interrupt simon's critiques.
2. let the mentors spend time real time with the contestants but let the kids sing whatever they want. ALW, Bon Jovi, David Foster, they were all really good mentors, but the kids should be able to stay in their genres. How about a Rob Thomas or Timbaland or Justin T.?
3. the instrument playing is old.
4. we don't see transformations anymore. These kids are pretty much the same as they were in hollywood!
5. one person=one vote!

DEE MARIE Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 07:50 PM EST

FIRST OF ALL.... MY HUSBANDAND I HAVE ALWAYS WATCHED THE SHOW FROM DAY ONE...THE BEST PART OF THE SHOW IS THE BEGINING WHEN PEOPLE AUDITION FOR THE SHOW THAT'S GREAT.... SOMETIMES I THINK IT REALLY HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH WHO CALL IN..... THAT IS JUST A MONEY THING.... SECOND OF ALL.... WHAT EVER SIMON SAYS SIMON DOES HE HAS THE CONTROL... REGARDLESS OF WHAT YOU THINK... HE IS THE CREATOR OF THE SHOW SO THE GIVE BACK A LITTLE....#@$# RATEINGS IS ALL THEY GO BY..... SO KEEP THE SHOW.. RYAN IS JUST FINE.. LET THEM PICK WHAT THEY NEED TO SING ...THE PEOPLE YOU PICK ARE TO OLD TO SING TO THERE MUSIC NEED A CHANGE BELIEVE IT OR NOT THIS IS MY LAST YEAR .... NEED A CHANGE....

LisaLu Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 07:35 PM EST

It is time to replace Paula!

Butterfield Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 07:00 PM EST

It is time to pull the plug on this sham. Last night's situation with Paula was nothing less than having the lid blown off of the "set-up" of AL. From the scripted comments (see past articles regarding banter between Simon/Ryan/Paula), to the millions of dollars made by the producers at the expense of the average viewer, it is time to put the money mill to rest.

TO: GEMINI Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 06:56 PM EST

Dittos! (Especially on Idol Gives Back). I would also add that they need to stop squeezing in plugs for "all things Idol" every minute of the show.

joan barger Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 06:52 PM EST

Go back to what made american idol the best thing sence ice cream dont let this show bite the dust good luck

katie Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 06:50 PM EST

Get rid of the theme weeks and mentors. Let the contestants pick what they want to sing. Who cares who sings Neil Diamond better or the Beatles! Too much bantering between judges. Simon, although critical, seems to be the only one who gets it right. Paula needs some no-doze or just read some q-cards. Results show 30 minutes. It gets really boring. I liked it without instruments and every week the contestants looked a bit more polished (hair, clothes) we got to see a transformation. This year is better than last and keep Ryan as the host. He's great.

Gemini Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 06:48 PM EST

1) Fire the producers and get back to basics.
2) Anyone with connections to Randy Jackson should be disqualified (ahem...Carly, Jordin....).
3) Get rid of the shrieking mosh pit, please!
4) Idol Gives Back has turned into a celebrity red carpet event. Have the producers and judges quietly make their monetary contributions (they can afford it, right?) and not turn a good cause into one BIG STROKE FEST.
5) Don't manipulate the results based on who the producers think could make them the most money.

part-time fan Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 06:47 PM EST

1) I like the flashback idea - we don't usually tune in to AI before the last 12 or so anyway.
2) The banter is fine if it's short AND witty (is that possible?!) What I get tired of is the crazy talk on the reviews. Ryan's time seems ok, I like his sarcasm.
3) I love the other idea I saw on the comments about voting for the person you most want OFF! I've said from the start that it should be that way! Do That Please!!
4) DEFINITELY no more hand-wavers in the front, PLEASE! That was Not a good idea - keep the audience in their seats and let them wave signs.

momcat Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 06:24 PM EST

no more hand waving it's stupid and distracting.
no more phone in questions dull dull dull dull dull and did I say dull
If you are going to have mentors don't short change them. Barry Manilow and Rod Stewart had enough or took enough time with the idols to bring out the best in their performances.

Penny Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 05:59 PM EST

We should be voting for who we want kicked OFF the show. They should get rid of the call in questions.

Idolfan1 Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 05:53 PM EST

For my "I plan to buy their CD when it's released" money, Syesha is by far the best vocal AND the best performer! I will likely buy David Cook's CD as well, but as far as the other three, I believe they are all, as Simon often says, "forgettable." And I couldn't disagree more with the comment that I keep hearing about this being "the most talented group ever." Seriously???

Leo862 Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 05:42 PM EST

1) Cut the elimination show to 30 min. The audience question/answer segment is cringe inducing.

2) Eliminate or revamp the group numbers and the Ford commercials. Someone like David Cook might lose some credibility after twirling around like a whirling dervish to the tune of "9 to 5". I just feel bad for him.

3) Please be fair with critique. Everyone has their favorites, but what does Syesha have to do to get a compliment, find the cure for cancer?

4) Instead of the long audition process and the useless show where the judges tell each contestant if they made it to the top 24, the top 24 should be presented to the audience by showing each one's audition.

4) More freedom in song choice/theme nights. Include a night where the contestants perform whatever they want.

5) No more mosh pit...please. Watching the arhythmic arm waving is just embarrassing.

LuvPie Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 05:32 PM EST

I am an avid AI fan but even I see a need for some changes.

1. YES, begin with Hollywood week and incorporate the auditions into the weekly shows.

2. More contemporary mentors [Hint: Dolly and Diamond are NOT contemporary] and great bands as mentors. Personally, I loved ALW week but I'm into his musicals. The younger viewers, probably not so much.

3. NO MORE TWO WEEKS OF ANY ONE SONGBOOK! Two weeks of the Beetle songbook is probably where the ratings began to fall.

4. Make Theme a genre of music in lieu of an actual artist. Like "Pop Week", "Metal Week", "Country Week", "40's Standards" week - and let the contestant's choose their song from that style/era of music.

5. More personal info on each contestant, especially as they get down to the bottom 10. Trip back to hometown was good one year but that hasn't been done this year.

Not a Fan Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 05:15 PM EST

1. Reduce the results show back to 1/2 hour like it used to be.
2. Get rid of all the theme nights, let the kids sing what their genre is.
3. Fire Paula!
4. Let us vote for the person we want eliminated.
5. Only allow 5-10 phone calls per phone number.
6. Stop the silly bantering between Ryan and Simon. It is no longer funny after 7 seasons of the same old, same old.
7. No one with a former professional contract should be allowed to compete (i.e. Carly Smithson).
8. Give us the real vote totals per week of at least the bottom 3 (or bottom 2).
9. Let us see all of the top 24 and get to know them. Do not promote your favorites so they have a huge fanbase before we even get to see the first show.

Rachel Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 05:15 PM EST

I like the suggestion about Queen Latifah as a mentor. I'm thinking she would also be a great replacement for Paula!
I also think they need to scale Ryan way back. I've noticed a disturbing trend where he seems to be trying to sing every week! Stick to your hosting Ryan and stop the incessant banter with Simon! It's annoying!
Scrap those stupid on-line questions too - especially if you're going to show the actual question and then have everyone act completely surprised when it's asked!!

BJ Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 04:58 PM EST

1. Get rid of those idiotic kids in the mosh pit.

2. Let the contestants choose songs of their choice. These theme and mentor weeks are too restrictive and mostly boring.

3. Let the contestants sing the entire song.

4. Get Paula to rehab. Quickly.

alex Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 04:46 PM EST

Besides agreeing with a lot of comments already posted (more Hollywood week, less auditions, nix the mosh pit, etc), I really think it would be a fabulous idea to have previous Idol contestants (especially the winners and runners-up) be the weekly mentors. I just feel that previous Idol contestants would actually be able to give helpful feedback (that is, real mentoring) to the contestants about performance issues. Besides, I love hearing about old Idol-favorites like with the "Idols on Broadway" segment last week. I just think it would be fabulous if Kelly Clarkson or Fantasia or Melinda (she would definitely be able to give singing advice!!) didn't just come and sing a quick song, but were able to pass on their wisdom to new contestants. The whole point is, I think, that Idol viewers really care about the contestants, present and past,--that's why these outside mentors seem silly and forced. The more focus on the Idol world, the better.

Linda Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 04:43 PM EST

I agree that AI is in serious need of a complete makeover! My suggestions:
1) ELIMINATE PAULA!! She is destroying any credibility the show may still have. Bring back Olivia Newton John or Gladys Knight;
2) NO MOSH PIT! Silly and distracting to viewers and I can only imagine how much more so for the contestants;
3) 1 VOTE ONLY per phone line;
4) 1 VOTE ONLY per on-line vote;
5) MORE CONTEMPORARY MENTORS! How about songs more closely linked to the types of music they will actually sing! How about Madonna or Jay Z or Queen Latifa?;
6) Change the minimum age limit to 18. Anything younger than that is too young to be thrust into the AI world. Have the young singers come back when they're a little more "seasoned"; and
7) Start the season at Hollywood week with audition flashbacks. Completely eliminate that humiliating and endlessly boring display of those who just want their "15 minutes."

Ken Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 04:42 PM EST

Simon goes too far in some of his performer evaluations, saying things like "you will be lucky to be here next week." He should not be telling America how to vote, yet he routinely does this. Randy and Paula avoid this, as they should.

Barbara Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 04:06 PM EST

A couple of additional comments:
- I think you have a large contingent of viewers who, like me, are over 40, but even we think you're overdoing the older mentors and their music. I don't want to hear the hip/hop or rap either, but cutting back on the old crusty performers would be a good thing.
- I hated the live home-viewer phone calls.
- The little change with judges commenting on all singers after they performed really back-fired. Recommend NOT doing that again.
- Don't make those poor kids sing after learning they've been voted off unless they can pull it together to do so.
- Can Ryan stop repeating the phone numbers and instructions so often? Leave them on the screen longer, just stop repeating all of that stuff!

Barbara Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 03:55 PM EST

I've been a loyal fan since the beginning, but starting to lose interest. Too many substandard singers win over the truly talented. My suggestions:
1. change the voting process - give the truly talented singers a better shot at winning. How about a weighted score that includes judges votes AND viewers votes?
2. Some of the banter between judges is fun and lightens things up, but a little less of it wouldn't hurt.
3. I would hate to see any of the judges replaced, but:
Simon: Please get over yourself a little and stop with the rude, harsh comments and insults.
Randy: Please stop with some of the "check it out Dawg"!
Paula: Girl, you have GOT to spit out your words! Say what you mean...doesn't always have to be profound or positive.
Ryan: Keep doin' what you're doin boy! You hold the whole thing together incredibly well!
4. There are too many shows for the initial try-outs.
5. I think the use of instruments, especially in final weeks, is distracting.

Chris Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 03:33 PM EST

Oh, and LESS COMMERCIALS!

I DVR this season because I just can't watch it live anymore with all of the commercials and drivel... this way I can just skip through it all.

Chris Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 03:26 PM EST

1. No more mosh pit... ANNOYING and DISTRACTING! The waving arms and overdone screams make AI seem even more rigged and creates an obvious false excitement. (Why do they scream when a contestant gets up from a chair or starts walking during a performance?)

2. Theme weeks have to go, especially ones like Neil Diamond and ALW. You wonder why the ratings are down? Stop making excuses. You know people in your target demographics don't care about these people. Let the contestants sing what they want!

3. Paula has to go. She's a staple of the show, yes, but enough's enough.

4. Give the voting results in number of votes per contestant or percentage.

5. Audition weeks are unwatchable. Nobody can sit through that many hours of garbage. Start at Hollywood weeks.

6. Get rid of the mosh pit. (Oops, said that already. It's just so annoying!)

7. No more theme weeks. (Oops, said that already too.)

8. Nigel thinks he knows what we want... he doesn't.

notbrl Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 03:17 PM EST

eliminate the tween vote. this is not Nick TV, although it may as well be.

Dave in Alamitos Beach Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 03:13 PM EST

Please buyout Paula's contract and send her to rehab. It's a win-win-win for her, the show, and the viewers. Give Randy one more year to get his act together or he goes too. I'm sure that the advertisers would not be happy to know that I fast forward through everything Paula & Randy say, and by doing that, I'm primed to fast forward through their commercials as well.

Secondly, as far as mentors go, I don't have a problem with the concept, but the mentors should really be people who can help the contestants to improve. We should be seeing singing coaches and clothes shopping trips more than sycophantic "gee wiz" comments about these "legendary" performers.

I have no problem with a ten votes per phone line minimum or some other way to "make every vote count."

Finally, please expand Hollywood week since it is the first time we can actually feel comfortable dissing the singers since they are supposed to be the best. Flashbacks to really bad auditions would be okay I guess.

Shirley Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 03:05 PM EST

Paula has to go. She is a disgrace to the show. Her comments have no value,if she is supposed to be eye candy, there is no sweetness.

Tracie Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 02:58 PM EST

I think the judges should NOT be allowed to comment after performances. On results night, show clips of the singers performances and THEN let the judges comment. This way they won't influence voters.

Celine Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 02:55 PM EST

Lose the frigging mentors already, and please never subject us to horrendous performances like that screeched out by the ridiculously over-pimped Leona Lewis. How many things are they trying to sell in this Sh*tfest?

Margie Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 02:51 PM EST

1. Paula has overstayed her welcome. No credibility and no really valuable input to help the contestants anymore. "nice" is just not enough.
2. Give Randy a dictionary to be bale to better articulate his vast knowledge
3. Mosh pit.....why?
4. More relevant mentors to being a "pop" idol today is required to inspire the singers
5. LIMIT votes to one per phone line. I think you just like being able to say you broke voting records, which does not best represent the popular vote, but rather the lack of time by people other than teens who can vote repeatedly!!!

Alais Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 02:48 PM EST

Lose the egregious mosh pit--sorry, Grandpa Nigel, that concept went out with detachable collars and high button shoes. Maybe this cr*p might fly for you Limeys (I realize, for example, that break-dancing has just recently become popular there), but we're a bit more ahead of the times here, thanks very much.

Chloe Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 02:45 PM EST

GET RID OF PAULA. She has made a mockery out of the show.

Randi Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 02:44 PM EST

Allow Simon and Ryan to mate already--that sexual tension gets OLD.

Jake Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 02:42 PM EST

Lose the early auditions, they're worthless; don't pre-pimp contestants--either viewers sheepishly fall in line or become prejudiced before even seeing them perform; don't throw contestants under the bus because they don't conform to producers' freakish criteria (obviously, they don't know what people listen to anyhow with a few exceptions like Kelly/Carrie); either make it a true singing competition (in which case Elliot Yamin would have won in his year) or don't bother (crown MUPPET Archuleta now); BEST SUGGESTION: CANCEL AI now and put us all out of our misery.

vivi Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 02:37 PM EST

Paula should stay she was only reading the script, maybe they should fire the person who decided to change the schedule half way through the programme.

Ariel Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 02:37 PM EST

Send the hilarious unhip and inept Nigel Lythgoe back to "The Enemy Within"--his unsightly visage and creepy vibe works much better there, and his ability to completely demolish a blockbuster franchise like AI disqualifies him as a producer.

Esme Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 02:34 PM EST

1. Insist that Paula be regularly drug-tested (I'd look for Vicodin or Oxycontin) or fire her.
2. Fire Randy--he's what we used to call "educably mentally retarded."
3. Don't let the judges watch dress rehearsal and insist that they don't sit there carrying on while the contestants are trying to sing.

linda Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 02:07 PM EST

Cut out 1/3 of the commercials and give the contestants more time to sing

Hold the judges to a professional standard. If they can't meet that standard, get rid of them.

Quit trying to plug all things idol...a few plugs here and there, okay...but keep in down to a minimum.

CAM Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 02:06 PM EST

1. Have Ryan stop insulting Simon He is a good host, but his remarks about Simon are annoying.
2. Too many audition shows. Flashbacks are a good idea.
3. Show all of the top 24 during auditions/Hollywood. Give them an equal chance with viewers.
4. Let us hear what Simon has to say. (Ryan and Randy stop cutting him off!)
5. Only let people vote by phone/Text once.
6. Less restrictive song choice categories.
7. No arm-waving audience members.

Idol needs change Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 02:01 PM EST

More thoughts after reading other comments:
1. Change the voting. Have the judges vote each week and factor their vote into the call-in vote some how. Limit the # of times a person can call. Have online voting (also limited).
2. Scale back the back-up singers and the band. They sometimes overwhelm the contestants.
3. Once the top twelve is reached, don't vote anyone off the first week. Wait until week two and vote off two people using a combined two week total voting process, thus giving everyone a better chance to showcase themselves and also having a better, more interesting top ten.

Leo Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 02:00 PM EST

Well first thing, Paula needs to GO! I mean really!? Being a Youtube junkie I've seen Sharon Osborne judging on Britain's X Factor and think she would be a wonderful replacement for her. Also, I remember one year Gladys Knight guest judged on AI, and was impressed to finally hear intelligent critiques! She would also be a good replacement. Heck, know that I am thinking about it, have those 2, Sharon and Gladys, take Randy and Paula's spots. I may be able to regain the brain cells I lost this season if they did

bas Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 01:55 PM EST

1-Half hour elimination shows - and stop making the loser sing after they've been eliminated.

2-Change the voting. I think we should be voting for the worst performance instead of our favorite. In the earlier rounds, there might be 3 or 4 performances that I think are good, but I'm not going to spend 2 hours dialing for all of them - I have a life - but it's usually pretty easy to pick the worst.

Marmie Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 01:50 PM EST

Love Ryan! He is so quick on his feet and articulate, adds great energy and is the much-needed bridge between contestants, judges and viewers. Bravo Ryan!
The judging is skewed this year more than ever and the public knows it. Let the public's votes push the favorites by announcing the voting results in order of placement. That'll stimulate more interest in the competition and keep it more real.

Marie Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 01:45 PM EST

1) Get rid of the non-stop shrieking, arm flailing mosh pit. Don't sorority girls get enough attention?
2) Instead of torturing viewers with bad celebrity dance montages for Idol Gives Back, have American Idol and all its revenue make a BIG DONATION to the cause. Stop bilking the audience for money and cough up some of your own.
3) Let the contestants be themselves and pick their own songs.
4) Showcase all of the contestants before they make the Top 24. Poor Garrett Haley did not have a chance this season.
5) Half-hour results show.
6) Disclose the voting results each week.
7) NO MORE PRE-WRITTEN CRITIQUES of a performance that has yet to occur.
8) On the same note, let the judges give their honest opinions of the performance (that just occurred, not the dress rehearsal) without producer input.
9) Simple: Amateurs allowed, semi-professionals/professionals not allowed.
10) Be honest with the American viewing audience at ALL times.

Candace Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 01:45 PM EST

1. limit the audition horror-shows to one week or none. it is not helpful to watch misguided people make fools of themselves - would rather watch real talent
2. Ryan Seacrest is terrific - but the sarcastic interactions with Simon are not a particularly positive part of the show.
3. Never do that logistical nightmare that was last night's show again - let the judges tell each performer after they sing, no waiting.
4. voting should be limited to one person, one vote.
5. let the performers choose their own material each week and stop requiring them to choose a particular guest artist.
6. keep the cameras off of the band and the back up singers. we want to see the contestants, not the support people. and all that distracting "hand-waving" in the audience is, well.... distracting.
7. keep the same judges -- they are key to the show's popularity and part of its "charm"
7. find a way for the viewers to be able to give "coaching" to the contestants. - like email posting directly to them.

MLA Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 01:41 PM EST

1. More contemporary themes - My favorite weeks from the past two seasons were Mariah and Bon Jovi.
2. Idol should take a page from SYTYCD and judges should pick who goes home out of the bottom 3. This would also give contestants the chance to sing for their lives - thus giving them the opportunity to sing whatever song they like, and show some personality.
3. Lose the Ford Commercials - it's just plain cheesy and makes the contestants look lame, especially the rockers like Daughtry and David Cook.
4. Lose the questions from the audience
5. Keep Ryan and all the judges.
6. Bring back the wildcard.

Idol needs change Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 01:33 PM EST

1. Bring back the wildcard.
2. Love the idea of the bottom three singing and the judges deciding who goes - that made RockStar really exciting.
3. GET RID OF PAULA!
4. Have four judges instead of three - the fourth being a different guest judge each week from the music industry who will be honest with the contestants. No actors or producers!
5. Have genre nights (rock, country, folk, etc.) rather than theme nights that relate to only one musician.
6. If they have a 'mentor' for the week make sure they're like Andrew Lloyd Webber and actually say something constructive to the contestants.
7. Have the mentor be the guest judge for the week.
8. Less video on their most embarassing moments, etc.
9. Sing whole songs, not just parts of them.
10. Rotate the order the judges give their comments.
11. GET RID OF THE HAND WAVING CREEPY PEOPLE IN THE FRONT!
12. Once only - One week have them all sing the same song, or maybe rotate two songs so half sing one and half the other.

Dee Dee Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 01:33 PM EST

There is only one thing that should be done first and foremost: FIRE Nigel & Co and get some fresh blood in the producer department.

Robert Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 01:05 PM EST

Please stop making these poor kids sing the kinds of songs that they will never sing again. No more opera or Neil Diamond. Let them pick their own songs and show what kind of artist they are.

Cathi Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 12:51 PM EST

I have watched almost every season now and my biggest complaint is the voting. It should be limited some how. Either to the number of contestants remaining or each of us just getting 1 vote and thats it. That would be the REAL popular vote!!! Please, some one change the voting! It was so hard to see Chris Daughtry get let go and Taylor Hicks win! Micheal Johns and Carly should be in the top now as well, but.......
Let the bottom 3 sing for their lives on the second night with the judges deciding who ultimately goes!! I do love this show! I love hearing about past Idol finalists too. Paula, I love you, but PLEASE try harder. Simon, you keep it real. Sometimes you are a little too harsh, but you mostly get it right. Randy, enough with the "yo dawg, check it out". Can we update the song choices? Lets have a 90's & now week & let them sing a whole song for a change. Less bantering would mean more time for singing!

Loyal Idoler Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 12:40 PM EST

Everytime I watch results night and see the video montage of the contestant going home... I always feel like I am seeing their personality for the first time and it almost always is the first time I am connecting to the contestant as a person and performer. I always think that I wish that I had seen these "outtakes" all along about the contestants journey while they are going through it not when they are voted off. The heart of American Idol still lies in the dreams of all the new contestants every year and I believe that should be showcased.

Sue Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 12:30 PM EST

(1) The problem this year is simple for me: I just don't care which one wins. They're not interesting or good enough, and they're forced to sing boring songs that don't fit them.

(2) Let the contestants perform songs of their own choice - the kind of music that they will be singing if they produce an album. Don't force them to sing songs that don't fit their style. THAT's what we need to be voting for:: if we want to buy this person's album when they're singing THIS kind of music. Archuletta may have a good voice, but he has yet to sing a song I would ever want to listen to twice. No way I would spend even .99 on one of his songs - they are utterly, mind-numbingly boring.

(3) Get a younger viewpoint to add to the judging panel.

Andrea Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 12:28 PM EST

A few more thoughts, after reading other posts -- I agree with the many posters who would eliminate the mosh pit -- it is horrid! I like the themes, I just think there should be a bigger range. This year hasn't been very contemporary, with the exception of Mariah. I'd love to see Bret Michaels mentor a hair band week! That would be a challenging genre, too. I agree with Jerry about the backup singers; as the show has gotten bigger so has the support system, and frequently the band and backup singers overpower the Idols, it's really distracting. I do like the addition of instruments, that has added some humor. I agree w/NikkiB -- don't do an in-depth piece on someone who doesn't even make it through the audition, it just seems cruel. I like the auditions, but not so many weeks, and not so much Ryan commentary. I have to say, though, just on this Board the comments are so conflicting, there's no way they'll please a majority. Good luck!

Deborah B. Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 12:20 PM EST

AI is more of a commercial than a singing competition. Ford, coke and whoever has a new cd coming out as a mentor.
Let the contestants sing the songs that best fits them individually...even if it their own written material.
Limit the votes.
Ryan needs to go home and he needs to take Paula with him. It used to be amusing to watch her, now it's just sad.
Get rid of all the filler stuff...useless stage banter...questions from viewers...etc...
Oh! I know what if we let the contestants sing! What a concept. I would rather hear one complete (more than 90 seconds)number than two rushed songs.
There is more but now my head hurts.

Andrea Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 12:16 PM EST

Keep Ryan, and the judges' banter -- I love to hear their opinions. Tone down the negativity between Ryan and Simon, it's distracting. Do not include anyone with a prior recording contract or performance on another show (that would have spared us the animatronic David Archuleta, who's apparently 17 going on 57, with his awful song choices). I like the auditions, but AI focuses too much on the bad ones; I don't want to see people humiliated, and I wait anxiously for those moments when you feel like you're watching an undiscovered, amazing talent sing for the first time. That's what gets me interested, because then I want to see who makes it through. This year is boring -- everyone is too polished. I like the do-overs (Brooke) and the earnest attempts at trying something new (Chikezie's harmonica); it makes me feel like they are giving the contest everything they've got. Update the themes, and tell us more about the contestants. Give us a reason to care!

Jeannie Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 12:14 PM EST

1. No waving arms in the mosh pit!
2. More Hollywood week
3. Replace both Paula and Randy
with articulate, knowledgeable
singers/musicians
4. Mentors and themes from this
century
5. Get rid of the agendas that
cause pimping and drubbing
of contestants. Let America
truly decide!

lumpkat Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 12:03 PM EST

1) The show has become a beauty contest. Put a bag over everyone's head until it's down to three finalists. Better yet, expose their toes in week one, ankles in week two, knees in week three -- you get the idea.

2) MOSH PIT STAYS! Have the teeny-boppers jump up and down continuously like the Cameron Crazies (see Dook Basketball) and extend their middle fingers as they wave.

3) Guest hosts would be nice. How about Bob Barker (careful backstage, girls), Richard Simmons (careful onstage, guys) and any politician running for office (careful everyone!).

4) If you're going to do two Beatles nights followed by Dolly Parton, then why not complete the set with nightly themes featuring the songs of Tiny Tim, Slim Whitman and Elmer Fudd. Gregorian Chant night might be uplifting.

5) Arm the contestants so they can exchange pot shots with the judges. If that seems too Republican, use paintball guns or marshmellows.

6) Feature weekly wardrobe
malfunctions.

Bill Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 11:28 AM EST

Get Rid of Ryan
Keep the judges
Let the singers do what they do best...Sing. I liked the comment about telling more about the standout singers like David Cook and Carrie Underwood getting their degrees. They are good role models for the young viewers. Ryan waste way too much time.
Let the singers entertain us. Let us Vote. Give us a total of votes for each contestant each week. Keep it fair and honest. Cut out the ballads.

Jolacla Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 11:21 AM EST

No more group numbers....No more Ford commercials....keep judges banter and critique.......keep the auditions but shorten them...revamp the background singers and music which makes the songs sound audult contemporary instead of young....have the judges pick the bottom three and then let america vote who to save from that group.....More current songs or help from successful pop producers to make the arrangement better and modern.....

GW Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 11:17 AM EST

This has been one of the best seasons for Talent. Too many really good singers left too soon. I agree David A sings ok but he acts like a kid not a preformer. David C is really the only one left that really stands out. That does not make the others bad, just not great. I hope the votes are fair and for the best singer not for the one the young people have a crush on. It also looks like most people agree they need a new host. Ryan has too many jobs and doesn't need this one. I hope they get someone with some class that doesn't talk down to the contestants.

Carol Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 11:16 AM EST

Paula has gotten so bizarre in her comments. I don't know if she is on drugs or what? I cringe whenever it is her turn to comment. Most times she doesn't critique the singing. What does "in their zone" mean? This is one of her standard comments.I have taken to recording the program. I can fast forward thru all the extra stuff and just watch the singing.
Nigel Lithgoe, is also producer of So You Think You Can Dance? It is setup like AI used to be. Most of the suggestions put forward for improving AI are also used on this show.

Jane Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 11:14 AM EST

Ryan does a great job of hosting but his interaction with Simon is really tired.

The judges personalities are so much a part of the show that changing them (the judges) would probably damage the show a lot.

Hollywood week is great but the auditions could really be condensed for my taste.

An age range of 18 to 28 would be about perfect for contestants in my opinion.

More about the finalists could really make them role models for American young people who watch the show. Carrie Underwood going back to finish college in the year after she won was an amazing story that I never saw get any play on the show. David Cook and others having degrees in music - these are things you only read on the internet - never played up as examples to young aspiring fans...

Sheryl Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 11:13 AM EST

This show needs to be revamped ASAP! Let contestants pick their own songs!I like the themes, but there's not enough options...I feel sorry for the contestants- We don't see their true potential until the final episodes. I like Ryan as the host & I think he plays the good guy and tries to make the contestants more comfortable when they get bad reviews. Also, I like the 3 judges, but they are hypocrites...Telling them not to sing like a broadway star and then having Andrew Lloyd Webber as the guest; "don't try to sing like Whitney or Mariah", then have Mariah as the guest! Ridiculous!

Lynn Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 11:00 AM EST

As far as I'm concerned, Ryan Seacrest can be axed; if he were only half the star he thinks he is.....he is not funny, talks way too much. Who needs his input anyway? Excuse me, I do not recall him being asked to Judge. Also, if they are going to have mentors on the show, they should mentor instead of fawning all over the kids and if they want the contestants to shine, then the mentors should be of a more current genre. This year, too many ballads, not enought spunk and Paula is not only a poor role model, but continues to make a blasted fool of her self too often! Let's add a little more upbeat music that challenges the contestants, instead of making the show a musical history lesson.

michelle monsein Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 10:47 AM EST

I think the show this year has been entertaining as always, but I think it is ludicrous how hypocritical the judges comments and producers theme choices are. "Don't take on a big song ala Whitney or Mariah" but two weeks later, do Mariah. "Don't sound like you're a Broadway singer" but two weeks later, sing Andrew Lloyd Webber... sound "new and contemporary" but sing from a collection that is thirty years old by Neil Diamond. I look at those talented contestants and think the true challenge must be in hiding their humiliation and outrage. They say they are looking for an artist that will sell, then have the boys singing Dolly Parton songs?! The show is totally confused and needs an Extreme Makeover, stat. As for the judges, Paula is too loopy and the show looks rigged: David A.is talented but has no stage presence, and receives ONLY praise. Give me a break. Cut the theme park-dance numbers and religious stuff, too!Let contestants pick their own songs!!

Bobbi Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 10:44 AM EST

WASN'T Great. Ny last comment should have said.

Marsonda Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 10:44 AM EST

Keep the same judges.

Keep the auditions and Hollywood the same.

Eligibility age 19 or 20 to 32. This would eliminate tutors and chaperones. David A.'s giggles and the immaturity of Kady and Danny Noreiga, age limits need to be increased.

One vote per phone number or vote via computer with one vote only. Will cut out the Sanjaya and other less talented from being held each week by the teenyboppers.

Once down to 10-12 contestants, allow them to sing their entire songs.

As for mentors, I'm 59 years old, so a lot of the older mentors I enjoy seeing on AI. Also, you younger people, remember the "older" mentors bring a lot of experience and wisdom to the contestants that the younger mentors could not bring. But, having a mix of somewhat younger, middle age and older mentors would be a good idea.

Get rid of the silly waving hands in the pit, got to be annoying to judges & singers.

And Simon, start wearing something besides black gray or white t-shirts all the t-shirts! :)

Bobbi Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 10:42 AM EST

Well everyone has something to say about this.
1. I like seeing Hollywood week.
2. I think American Idol Gives back is a great cause but, I do not care to watch the program that week.
3. I agree that you need more current mentors.
4. On results night, you spend too much time recapping what the contestants sang and judges comments.
5. I do not like the call-in questions. Not needed.
6. Contestants choose too many slow songs "ballads". I want to see them rock. That being said. I would love Bret Michaels of Poison to be a mentor. They have over 20 years of music and Bret is still going.
7. This years votes do not reflect the talent of the contestants. I hated to see Carly and Amanda Obermeyer go. I am now rooting for David Cook.
8. After all this I still watch the show, but if I can have some imput on the new changes that would be great.
9. New voting system. Don't leave it all up to the viewers, some pick faves and vote 4 them to stay every week when their performance was great!

Jerry Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 10:23 AM EST

1. MOSH PIT - gone! They look like freaking Zombies, people! It's disgustingly insulting to the home viewers' intelligence. We want to see the performers, not their worshippers.

2. BACKUP SINGERS are too loud and provide too much support. We need to hear the competitors' voices.

3. Age limit - good recommendation to bump it up. Archeletta is talented but still VERY green - too young to provide very satisfying competition.

4. If Paula's act has become a bizarre circus, why would you want to dump her? My gosh, this show needs every ounce of entertainment it can pack in.

5. Tell the booing crowd to hush-out. All three judges have something to say and they shouldn't have to overshout the crowd, that just gets waaaay old every week.

6. Celebrity guest judges - let's return to that. That worked really well in past seasons.

jblues Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 10:10 AM EST

1. Change the rules to those of Rockstar: The bottom 3 sing for their lives on elimination night and the judges decide which one goes home.

2. Since nobody would trust the 3 judges we have now to wield such power, replace them with credible judges of musical talent.

3. Move the show to Las Vegas. Hire Vegas stage and sound crews. The sound on Idol is terrible - they need some real pros running the board.

4. Broadcast the show in Dolby 5.1. It's amazing that it isn't done that way today.

Ann Wed, Apr 30, 2008 at 10:07 AM EST

Different weekly guest Judge. I'm sure even the judges have their favorite contestant. Guest Judge will provide a truly un-biased opinion.

Judges should decide the fate of the contestants.

America votes for who goes home..not stays.

Show more Hollywood week, less of the auditions, while some of that is funny for the most part I don't really enjoy watching people who think they can sing but really can't and hearing them argue with the judges..JUST LEAVE ALREADY !!

Judges - Simon should be the only one allowed to comment. He's the only one that has anything constructive to say, good or bad.

Don't make the person leaving sing the same dreadful song again that mad