Simon Cowell is leaving “American Idol” — but does anyone really care?
Although Cowell’s departure comes at a critical time for the show — “American Idol” has been steadily losing viewers since it hit its peak in the first weeks of Season 6 in January 2007 — the news, oddly enough, has barely caused a ripple in the online “Idol” universe.
“As if everybody hasn’t been predicting this for the past year — well, it’s good to finally get confirmation!” commented Idol fan, Bootstar.
Another fan, Tinawina, has no problem imagining “Idol” without its famous judge, “I kinda want to see him go. He’s been bored for years. Plus his judging was way off this year,” she wrote.
Justantonio too is not a fan, “Frankly I couldn’t stand Simon Cowell this past season . . . his head was so big it was in the clouds . . . I’m sure ‘American Idol’ will be able to fill his spot with no issues.”
It’s little wonder the hardcore faithful are taking the news in stride — Cowell has been hinting at his departure for months.
“The idea that for the next five years, I’d be doing exactly what I’ve been doing for the past five years, . . . . the thought is just too depressing,” Cowell told The Hollywood Reporter in late April,
To experienced “Idol” watchers, it has seemed that Simon has been phoning it in for the past couple of years.
For instance, during one of Allison Iraheta’s performances last year, Cowell was drawing a moustache on fellow judge Paula Abdul with crayons, rather than listening to the red-haired rocker sing. “Idol” fans were steamed as Cowell could barely get out a critique between guffaws.
Interestingly, Cowell seems more engaged while judging his reality shows across the pond. On “X Factor,” spiffed up in a suit, sitting ram-rod straight in his chair, Cowell is alert, attentive and more interested in the contestants.
On “Britain’s Got Talent,” Cowell gazed at his soon-to-be-star contestant, Susan Boyle, as she sang “I Dreamed a Dream,” cupping his chin like a smitten school-boy.
On “Idol,” dressed in his black T-shirt, Cowell is usually slouching, sometimes surly, often recycling putdowns he’s used before.
And that vastly different attitude has some Idol watchers believing new blood may be just what the show needs.
“I agree that Idol could survive without Simon’s smug, bored self,” says “Idol” online fan Sylvanaire, “They would have to get someone witty and concise to replace him, but it could be done. I’m tired of his shenanigans, honestly. ”
In fact, a shot of new blood is exactly what the show will get when Ellen Degeneres climbs aboard during Hollywood week next month. Her star power and energy could help ease the pain of losing the show’s star judge.
Fox is pledging to keep “Idol’ going with or without Cowell. According to the Hollywood Reporter, “Idol” is “close” to signing a new deal that could extend the show for three more years.
There will be plenty of time to fill the mean Brit’s spot.
Plus, there’s still one more season of Cowell to go. “Idol” fans hope he makes the most of it.
“Well, Simon, at least try to make it a good season,” pleads “Idol” fan Kirsten. “Please go out on a high note. If we think you are boring, we might not want to watch your new show.”