More "Idol" Changes: Can We Handle It?

When FOX does reschedule that conference call with “Idol” executive producer Nigel Lythgoe, there will be much to discuss…

In two separate interviews last week, Nigel dropped clues as to how different the show will look this year. And it’s VERY different.
And you guys know how I hate change…

In an interview with the “New York Post,” Nigel revealed the Top 24 round will be completely eliminated and the show will go directly to the Top 12.

Nigel told the “Post” about those middle rounds: “The middle rounds will disappear, but the judges will still be bringing [the number] down," he said (The middle rounds have changed from year to year with as many as 34 finalists.). When you're showing viewers 34 people and asking the country to judge 34 people, you don't know who's talented—you only know the ones who've had a bit of their stories shown in the auditions. It's much easier to say, ‘Here are the Final 12, now here are their stories, and start figuring out who you like.’”

Am I the only one who REALLY doesn’t like the sound of that? I mean, won’t we be more manipulated by the producers than we’ve ever been?

In an interview with TVGuide.com, Nigel revealed that the contestants will need to do more than just sing.

From the post: “Executive producer Nigel Lythgoe tells TVGuide.com that the finalists will face new challenges, including contests to make the best music video, to promote themselves, and to work with a band and dancers for an awards show-style performance.”

I’m not sure I like the sound of that either…

What do you guys think? Post your comments below or send an e-mail to ahendersonbentley@hotmail.com.

I’ll have much more as we get closer to January…

Photo Credit: Michael Becker/FOX