American Idol....Disappointing
I have been a big American Idol fan since its debut. Though it lost some interest for me and I did not watch the season Carrie Underwood won, I came back last season to check it out again. I was so impressed with the talent last season that I was really looking forward to season six.
I know that many people enjoy the first few weeks of absolutely hideous auditions. And I must admit that in seasons past, I have enjoyed a few guffaws at the contestants expense myself. However I was already beginning to feel this pre-show circus act was a little played out. Though I really wasn't interested in watching until the real competition begins, I did. What I saw last night was unforgivable.
Its one thing to poke a little fun at someone who is tone deaf. I can get a cheap laugh from a contestant who is delusional and obnoxious. But humiliating persons who are obviously mentally challenged is just mean. There is absolutely no humor in watching a mildly retarded or functionally autistic person get their feelings crushed, or stare blankly ahead totally confused.
I especially find it distasteful knowing what I do about the audition process. A friend of my daughter's auditioned a few years ago. She alleged that there are a series of auditions one must go through before they ever get the opportunity to go before Simon, Randy and Paula. These initial auditions are performed for the producers of the show. According to my source, it is apparent that they are looking for the absolute worst singers to fill these first few weeks of the show, and that some very good talent is passed over(yes she was one of the them). I am inclined to believe her because some of her statements have been echoed by previous contestants on the show.
I imagine that there are certain looks, personality types, and genre strength that the producers have decided will compose the best possible entertainment, long before the auditions even begin. No matter how well you might sing, if you don't fit the cast of characters they are looking for you won't get passed through to the judges. One fellow this season was given the golden ticket to Hollywood on this, his third attempt and first time before the judges.
I think America is becoming too hard hearted and it is a frightening realization. When we find violence, misogyny and now the humiliation of the least of our peoples entertaining....(certainly we must, because last nights show had the highest ratings ever).....it is time to be afraid. We all should be feeling uncomfortable. I hope at least some of us are, because discomfort is a motivator for change.
That's melavision. What's yours?
I know that many people enjoy the first few weeks of absolutely hideous auditions. And I must admit that in seasons past, I have enjoyed a few guffaws at the contestants expense myself. However I was already beginning to feel this pre-show circus act was a little played out. Though I really wasn't interested in watching until the real competition begins, I did. What I saw last night was unforgivable.
Its one thing to poke a little fun at someone who is tone deaf. I can get a cheap laugh from a contestant who is delusional and obnoxious. But humiliating persons who are obviously mentally challenged is just mean. There is absolutely no humor in watching a mildly retarded or functionally autistic person get their feelings crushed, or stare blankly ahead totally confused.
I especially find it distasteful knowing what I do about the audition process. A friend of my daughter's auditioned a few years ago. She alleged that there are a series of auditions one must go through before they ever get the opportunity to go before Simon, Randy and Paula. These initial auditions are performed for the producers of the show. According to my source, it is apparent that they are looking for the absolute worst singers to fill these first few weeks of the show, and that some very good talent is passed over(yes she was one of the them). I am inclined to believe her because some of her statements have been echoed by previous contestants on the show.
I imagine that there are certain looks, personality types, and genre strength that the producers have decided will compose the best possible entertainment, long before the auditions even begin. No matter how well you might sing, if you don't fit the cast of characters they are looking for you won't get passed through to the judges. One fellow this season was given the golden ticket to Hollywood on this, his third attempt and first time before the judges.
I think America is becoming too hard hearted and it is a frightening realization. When we find violence, misogyny and now the humiliation of the least of our peoples entertaining....(certainly we must, because last nights show had the highest ratings ever).....it is time to be afraid. We all should be feeling uncomfortable. I hope at least some of us are, because discomfort is a motivator for change.
That's melavision. What's yours?
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3 comments:
Mel,
I understand your thought process and I agree that the mentally challenged should not be made fun of. However, this show has humiliated contestants every season and people continue to come back for more. Its sort of like getting in a boxing ring with Mike Tyson and complaining when you get punched in the face. Don't participate and they won't have the chance to humiliate.
Mel,
I agree that all three judges are being extremely cruel this year. And the people they have screening prior to the televised auditions are the absolute lowest who will do anything to make the higher ratings.
In the past, I know they've taken shots at the clothing and hair but now they're making major attacks on self-asteem. This show is on the edge of a contestant suicide or a contestant attempting to murder a judge. It's really not all about laughs anymore.
After William Hung (a real charmer) I can see why any challenged or non-challenged person would think they have a chance to become a star.
I hope tradgedy doesn't have to strike to wake up the producers.
love the feedback! The whole point of blogging is to get different perspectives....thanks so much for sharing yours!
My PC was down for a few days so I have missed writing....stay tuned for new posts this week.
God Bless.
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