A Playful Misconception, A Childhood's Dream

During a final tribute to Simon Cowell, all the American Idol came back for a big performance as a send-off to one of the most talked about popular figures in the whole world. It was truly a sight, especially when many of the past idol hopefuls came on stage as well, turning the usually irritable Cowell into a hugable teddy bear.

In Simon’s speech, he thanked the viewing public and said, “you guys are the judge of this show and  you’ve done an incredible job over the years.” Really? I thought they’ve done a horrible, horrible job.

How successful has American Idol really been? If you look at those past winners behind Simon while he’s giving his final speech, how many of them have really achieved significant success? Even worse, how many of those who didn’t win the coveted title, went on to have even more success than the actual winners? (Chris Daughtry and Jennifer Hudson comes to mind without even thinking about it.) How many runner-ups went on to sell more records than the Idol themselves? (Clay Aiken and the most recent Adam Lambert.)

Only Carrie Underwood and Kelly Clarkson (and perhaps David Cook) have really justified the huge success and money-making machine that is American Idol. Two or three out of 8, those aren’t very good odds.

Other highlights included the power of Christina Aguilera’s presence and voice, and Janet Jackson’s surprise appearance (to me, anyway). When she first walked out, I was in awe; until her resemblance to her brother made me a little emotional.

But then her lip-synched performance once again brought reality back as I was reminded that she no longer is as young as she used to be, dancing and singing live.

Plus, how can anyone miss the very weird appearance and speech by Paula Abdul to Simon Cowell. That was very difficult and painful to watch. If that was scripted, someone needs to fire someone.