After 12 seasons on the air and the worst finale ratings in the shows history, “American Idol” is in trouble — so much so that it has fired its producers in search of a life-line of energy.
Nigel Lythgoe, who has been at the helm of the iconic TV talent show for nearly its duration, was fired over the weekend as executive producer. Lythgoe announced the departure of he and Ken Warwick via his Twitter handle, saying “Just had 10 days in the Bahamas, rain everyday. I get back to the States and get fired. Sad!”
Lythgoe added that he has reason not to be blue, since he will remain with Fox for “So You Think You Can Dance.”
“Yes, don’t worry. I’m on #SYTYCD. Fox still loves me,” he continued. “It’s not a personal thing they just feel IDOL needs new leadership after 12 Seasons.”
Truer words may have never been spoken. “American Idol,” which burst onto the entertainment scene as a ratings juggernaut, has since dwindled into near oblivion for the past several seasons. Once known as the granddaddy of star-making talent showcases, “Idol” has been anything but a star-maker of late and has struggled to find it’s footing. A mediocre talent pool, combined with a revolving door of bickering judges and the success of shows like NBC’s “The Voice” has turned “Idol” into a has been.
Yesterday, Fox named Pers Blankens, who currently produces the Swedish version of “Idol,” as their choice to replace Lythgoe. They also hope to resurrect the show with the addition of “Idol” alum Jennifer Hudson to the totally revamped judges panel.
Will it work? Only time will tell!
This show needs to go away somewhere. It's done!