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Spring Facelift for 'American Idol'

by Celebuzz on Dec. 15, 2008 12:34 PM / Leave a Comment
Spring Facelift for 'American Idol'
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American Idol is making a change or two for its March 10 return on the Fox Network.

Fox sources have apparently leaked a memo to mjsbigblog, an American Idol fan site.

If the leak holds true, look for Idol to have the same magic with modified trappings, including further development of singers to the now-standard cost slashing of extravagant specials.

Such as:

  • Return of the Wild Card: The popular gimmick gave voted-out contestants a shot at getting back in the game (Clay Aiken reentered and won runner up to Ruben Studdard in Season 2 thanks to a wild card).
  • Fewer train wreck auditions: Producers will forgo more colorful (read: horrifying) contestants and focus on "aspirational" singers, a memo said.
  • More Horses in the Stable: The semifinals round will now feature 36, as opposed to 24, contestants.
  • What "Gives"?: The hugely popular, and serious fundraiser, "Idol Gives Back " will now appear every other season, and will not be held this coming time around.

Take our poll below and tell us what you think of Idol's retooling.

Tell Us / Can The AI Changes Refresh the TV Institution?
Can The AI Changes Refresh the TV Institution?
Posted 11 mos ago / 4 responses
Next Story / VIDEO: The Fall and Rise of Madonna

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