American Idol: Why is it tanking?
So where do you assign blame for the ratings woes of "American Idol" (8 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, Fox) this season? Is it the polarizing presence of Nicki Minaj? The inane utterings of Mariah Carey? The bland ballads and dumb theme nights? Is it simply old age?
You could answer "all of the above" and be right, but there's one more thing to consider: the lack of a talented male heartthrob. Yes, "Idol" has been so consumed with finding another female champ that it alienated perhaps it most vital fan base: teen girls who crush on cute young guys.
The closest thing it had to a legitimate heartthrob was the recently ousted Lazaro Arbos, but there was one small problem: He couldn't sing. As for his male counterparts, they not only lacked that certain swoon-worthiness, they just weren't that good.
We can argue over whether "Idol" or "The Voice" has the best vocal talent. (We're still waiting for the latter to produce a real star.) But when it comes to which set of judges/coaches makes for the best TV, "The Voice" wins easily. Fans had reason to fret when Shakira and Usher came on to sub for Christina Aguilera and Cee Lo Green. But the new kids have fit in just fine with vets Adam Levine and Blake Shelton.
Moreover, they're having a good time, playing well off one another and exchanging good-natured barbs. They're just fun to watch. The "Idol" panel, in comparison, makes it feel like work. The four judges just pretty much do their own thing - especially Nicki and Mariah, who clearly are going out of their way not to make eye contact or speak to each other. There's a frostiness that you can feel through the screen. (The Oakland Press)
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