As "American Idol" enters the semifinals of its 9th season, it begs the question (as it has done before) of whether of not it can actually produce a real star. Though I don't watch the show anymore (I watched it sporadically in past seasons), I can't help but ask myself that same question. This article points out that only 2 of the 8 winners have actually been successful, Kelly Clarkson and Carrie Underwood. Though a sensation itself, can a show truly "decide" who's going to make it or break it, who people will call a star? Can 1 season on a show really be enough time for one to establish him/herself as "worthy of fame?"
It will be interesting to see how long "Idol" will last without Simon Cowell, the chief critic. Most likely the most experienced judge on the show, Cowell has critiqued singers for the past 8 seasons. Known for his harshness, Cowell does the job of a critic well; he expresses his opinions honestly and blatantly. After this season's end, however, Cowell will focus on "The X Factor" instead. It will be interesting to see how this effects "American Idol." I wouldn't be surprised if the show loses a lot of its essence and credibility after losing such a main figure.
I haven't followed Idol for a few years now as well and I must say, when I did follow it I loved it! A few questions: are you going to consider the runners-up who have succeeded (Clay, Kelly Pickler, etc.)? Is the focus going to be on the changing judges or the job the original judges have done in the past? Or possibly both. It might also be interesting to look into shows like Britain's Got Talent. However, you only have 1000 words so that might be adding something unnecessarily.
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