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Which American Idol Judge Would You Ditch?

BuzzSugar — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 10:30:59 -0800

There have been rumors flying recently that Paula Abdul could be on her way out of American Idol to work on other TV projects. Adding fuel to the fire is the addition of a fourth judge, Kara DioGuardi, which means the panel wouldn't be shorthanded if Paula did take off. Now, her publicist has said the rumor is "absolutely untrue," but it got me thinking. If you could get rid of one of the original three judges, which one would you choose to ditch, and why?Photos courtesy of Fox

Which American Idol Judge Would You Ditch?

Randy — I never want to hear "pitchy" or "dawg" again.

Paula — She can be a babbling mess.

Simon — He's just too mean.

All of them! Start over with new judges.

None of them! I love the panel just the way it is.

Other (tell me below)

Can American Idol Still Launch Careers?

BuzzSugar — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 15:30:57 -0700

With American Idol winner David Cook and runner-up David Archuleta both about to release albums in the coming weeks, here's an interesting question: Can Idol still really make someone a star? And even if the answer to that question is yes, how many Idol-related singers can people manage to care about?

USA Today's Idol reporter suggests that the Idol universe may be reaching the point of diminishing returns. There are 82 former Idol finalists, he points out — and how many of them could you still even name? For the seventh season, only the two Davids have announced albums at all (so nothing yet from Syesha, Jason, Brooke, Carly, et al). As for season six, Jordin Sparks's album has had decent success, but runner-up Blake Lewis hasn't been so lucky, and the rest of that year's group has all but disappeared.

Even worse, nearly every Idol contestant who's released more than one album (with the exception of Kelly Clarkson) has seen sales majorly drop from the first album to the second. There are tons more statistics on the USA Today blog, but in general, it doesn't seem like Idol contestants have a whole lot of staying power.

So, what does this say about the show as we approach the eighth season? Are we just too saturated with Idol-related singers and albums to care anymore? And are there any under-the-radar Idol folks whom you'll support till the very end? (I always did kinda like Elliott Yamin . . . )

Photo courtesy of Fox

Buzz News Roundup, 9/26

BuzzSugar — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 13:31:05 -0700

Do Not Disturb is the first casualty of Fall TV. — Broadcasting & Cable
It's only in the rumor stage, but still: People are saying Ricky Gervais may be the host for the 2009 Oscars! — E! Online
Steven Spielberg may adapt the sci-fi novel Chocky for his next project. — Zap2It
HBO wants to turn the Tom Wolfe novel I Am Charlotte Simmons into a TV series with Tina Brown as executive producer. — Variety
Helen Mirren is set to play a Mossad agent in director John Madden's The Debt, an English-language remake of Israeli thriller Ha-hov. — Variety
Melissa George of Alias will guest-star on Grey's Anatomy as a possible love interest for Callie or Erica. — Entertainment Weekly
Nick Nolte will star in an indie coming-of-age-drama titled Arcadia Lost. — Hollywood Reporter
Bob Dylan's new album will be released one week early as a free online stream on National Public Radio's website. — AP
The American Idol tour did better this year than last year but still couldn't match the 2006 edition. — USA Today

Photo courtesy of Fox

Love It or Leave It: David Cook's First Song, "Light On"

BuzzSugar — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 17:54:57 -0700

David Cook's first single has hit the Web, and I'm still sorting out how I feel about it. Is it too Creed-ish? Or is it exactly what you hoped to hear from the American Idol winner? "Light On" premiered on Popeater on Tuesday, will hit iTunes on Sept. 30, and will be the first single from his still-untitled first album that will be released Nov. 18. Take a listen to "Light On" (don't let the eyeliner in the video scare you) and then vote! Light On - David CookPhoto courtesy of Fox

Love It or Leave It: David Cook's First Song, "Light On"

Love it! There's a reason he won.

Leave it! Eek — that is wrong.

Other (I'll tell you below)

American Idol Adds Kara DioGuardi as Fourth Judge

BuzzSugar — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 09:32:15 -0700

When wannabe American Idols take the stage this Winter, there will be another voice at the judges' table telling them what's what. The show has added Grammy-nominated songwriter Kara DioGuardi as a fourth judge for the show's eighth season, joining Simon, Randy, and Paula.

In a statement, producer Simon Fuller said DioGuardi is "a smart, sassy lady, and one of America's most successful songwriters. We know she will bring a new level of energy and excitement to the show.” She's written songs for several Idol winners and contestants, including Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood, Taylor Hicks, Katharine McPhee, and Clay Aiken, as well as for Celine Dion, Pink, Hilary Duff, and scores of others. Gwen Stefani's "Rich Girl" was one of hers, as was Clarkson's "Walk Away" and, um, "We Rock" from Camp Rock. She's won 10 BMI Pop Awards for having written the most performed songs on radio.

According to Fox's press release, the show was originally intended to have four judges (though the network didn't say why they've decided to add one just now). A Fox executive added that DioGuardi will mean "more girl power" on the judging panel.

I can't blame Idol for wanting to shake things up a little. It was still the biggest show on TV by far last season, but its ratings were down considerably from its strongest years. Still, is a fourth judge the best way to do it? The judging segments of the show can seem long and painful enough as it is. Then again, maybe it will be nice to have a judge whose schtick hasn't been played to death . . . yet. What's your take?

Photo courtesy of Fox

What to Download: New Music on iTunes

BuzzSugar — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 14:30:44 -0700

Tuesdays are big in entertainmentville: Not only do all the new DVD releases hit Netflix, but new music also pours into stores, including iTunes. So I take a spin through each week's iTunes music releases and pick out some albums and tracks worthy of a download. Here are today's selections:

Idol voice: Despite that goofy-looking picture and the fact that this isn't necessarily my favorite type of music, David Archuleta's first post-Idol single, "Crush" isn't half bad. I could imagine a me in another universe wistfully looking out over the ocean on a beach, thinking of that special someone with this tune blazing in my earphones.

Futuristic R&B: If David A. is a bit too saccharine for your taste, check out this super-weird, super-awesome album from Janelle Monae. You may know this artist from OutKast's movie soundtrack for Idlewild. Take a listen to the fun and funky track "Many Moons." I'm also enjoying her surreal cover of the standard "Smile."

One more selection that stood out to me this week, so

Do You Care If Reality TV Is Real or Not?

BuzzSugar — Sun, 10 Aug 2008 11:00:13 -0700

It's pretty commonplace today to hear griping about the amount of truth in reality TV shows that are supposed to be "real." The Hills has been under particular scrutiny for what elements are scripted, but the issue extends to many other shows as well: Fans tend to cry foul when contestants on American Idol actually have professional singing experience or when the designers of Project Runway seem to be chosen for personality rather than skill. But the outrage never really lasts — the shows are still immensely popular, and it's not like anyone's breaking the law. So it's interesting to look at today in contrast to the '50s, when the rigging of a popular game show called Twenty-One was a major scandal. (Remember the Robert Redford film Quiz Show? It's based on this.) I got to thinking about it again because the contestant responsible for the fake-out, Charles Van Doren, has written about his role in the scandal for the first time in 50 years. It's a funny reminder of how far we've come in terms of how much fiction we'll tolerate on "real" programming. I didn't quite realize how crazy this scandal got back then — there were Congressional hearings! Compared to the outrage over the rigged game show that occurred decades ago, there don't seem to be many consequences for faking on TV nowadays. Is it because we just don't care anymore? As long as it's entertaining, do you need a show to be really real?Source

Do You Care If Reality TV Is Real or Not?

Yes! It's dishonest, misleading, and shady.

No! As long as I'm enjoying the show, that's all that matters.

Sometimes — It depends on the show.

American Idol: Interview With Season One's Justin Guarini

BuzzSugar — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 07:30:35 -0700

So I'm roaming around the San Francisco American Idol auditions, having no problem getting people to sing for me, when who should I bump into but Justin Guarini! You may recall Justin lost to Kelly Clarkson in the first ever Idol finale, but that hasn't stopped him from trucking along in his career: He's currently covering all things Idol for TV Guide and doing a little singing as well (check out his MySpace page for a sample of his songs).

I asked the Idol forefather a couple of questions including how the addition of instruments has changed the show and which David he was rooting for last season.

And you know what? I'm not gonna lie, he's pretty cute in person.

To watch my short video,

American Idol: A Morning in the San Francisco Auditions Line

BuzzSugar — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 09:30:28 -0700

It's baaaa-aack! Just when you think you're out, they pull you back in! OK, that's a bit melodramatic but that's a little how I felt when I headed down just south of San Francisco to check out the first set of folks lining up to audition for the eighth season of American Idol. Feels like just yesterday we crowned David Cook the winner and yet, here we are, back at the beginning.

And for some people, this beginning couldn't come quickly enough. Despite the fact that it was very early (6 a.m.!) and the line was very long, the folks I met were as pumped as ever, clearly inspired by last season and ready for their chance at singing stardom.

As I approached the line to talk to some of the auditioners, I thought I might have to pry them to sing for me — not so! Turns out, wielding a microphone and a camera around thousands of people hoping to be famous is like holding a magical singing wand. They saw my mic as I wandered by and just started belting away! It was. . . amazing, and their enthusiasm was contagious.

After the jump, watch my video of hopefuls, including a guy whose journey to the auditions made the front page of his local paper, a self-proclaimed "Trader Joe's Idol," and my favorite: A lovely rendition of Boyz II Men's "End of the Road." To judge for yourself if the next Idol will come from this city by the bay,

What Kind of Album Should Archuleta Make?

BuzzSugar — Fri, 06 Jun 2008 11:31:50 -0700

It will come as a surprise to no one that this year's American Idol runner-up, David Archuleta, has officially inked a record deal. After I thought, "Well, good for him," I had a head-scratch moment. See, I can't for the life of me figure out what kind of album he could make. Based on the types of songs he tended toward on the show, the logical fit would be adult contemporary. But does anyone really want to hear that from a 17-year-old? Then again, remember how awkward things got when he tried to do something more up-tempo? So what what do you think? What kind of album is the best bet for David A.?Photo courtesy of Fox

What Kind of Album Should Archuleta Make?

Adult contemporary — two words: Josh Groban.

Pop rock — maybe John Mayer could write him some songs.

R&B — just as long as he doesn't dance.

I don't care — I'd never buy his album.

Other (I'll tell you below)

What Was Your Favorite Season of American Idol?

BuzzSugar — Wed, 28 May 2008 05:45:37 -0700

I don't know about you, but I'm going through a little American Idol withdrawal, despite the fact that this was a rocky season. Ratings were on the decline, and then PaulaGate struck. But then there was the finale when David Cook won, and for a lot of people it restored some faith in the process. As exciting as all that was, though, how did it compare to last year? Were there as many memorable performances as in years gone by?What has been your absolute favorite season so far?Source

What Was Your Favorite Season of American Idol?

Season 1 — Winner: Kelly Clarkson

Season 2 — Winner: Ruben Studdard

Season 3 — Winner: Fantasia Barrino

Season 4 — Winner: Carrie Underwood

Season 5 — Winner: Taylor Hicks

Season 6 — Winner: Jordin Sparks

Season 7 — Winner: David Cook

Better Together Than Apart

BuzzSugar — Mon, 26 May 2008 13:15:27 -0700

Be it TV or movies, some pairs and trios create more magic together than they do apart. Sometimes a person's entire career is thanks to someone else with whom they do great work. And sometimes a new pair is born right before our eyes — like the combination of Jon Favreau and Robert Downey Jr., arguably the key factor in Iron Man's success. I've rounded up a few folks who I love together more than apart. To start my slideshow, hit "Start."

Whose Post-American Idol Album Are You Most Interested to Hear?

BuzzSugar — Fri, 23 May 2008 08:15:25 -0700

As I watched all of those sparkling song and dance numbers during the American Idol finale, I couldn't help but remember the good old days when Michael Johns had a shot at winning and Carly Smithson was surely destined for the top three. It was good to see them again! The producers of the show proclaimed all year long that this was the most talented group on Idol ever. I don't know how much I agree with that, but while watching the finale I realized there were more contestants this year whose albums I would be interested in hearing — and perhaps even spend money on. Despite Brooke White's implosion on the show (starting and stopping her song, etc.) I think she has the potential to make the kind of music I might dig. Does anyone think Chikezie could make an interesting contemporary album? And what about Kristy Lee Cook? Do you see a country album in her future?Of the this year's top ten, whose album are you most excited to hear?Photos courtesy of Fox

American Idol: David Cook Takes the Crown

BuzzSugar — Thu, 22 May 2008 08:45:36 -0700

Depending on your perspective, the American Idol finale is either the best two hours ever or the most excruciating two hours of your year. Either way, it never fails to be a kind of crazy, psychedelic blend between a televised award ceremony and a giant Ford commercial that brings the season's contestants back to the stage for one last time (until the tour that is).

America smashed all Idol records with 97.5 million votes, 56 percent of them for David Cook. Simon admitted that he called it wrong, that upon viewing the show at home he realized the night before was not a blowout. Which is what many of us were feeling. I'd still call the result an upset. There was a lot to cover so let's get down to it. To see my thoughts on the night,

Do You Agree With the American Idol Results?

BuzzSugar — Thu, 22 May 2008 05:45:23 -0700

So David Cook is our new American Idol! Do you think it was the right call?Photo courtesy of Fox

Do You Agree With the American Idol Results?

Yes

I don't care

American Idol Finale, Part One: The Battle of the Davids

BuzzSugar — Wed, 21 May 2008 09:39:15 -0700

Well, the American Idol finale showdown between the Davids did not disappoint. The show opened to what would become a rather prolonged metaphor for a singing boxing match of sorts, complete with the Rocky theme song, Michael Buffer, and shiny robes! Tension was high and it felt like anyone's game heading in before the singing started, especially after young Archuleta faltered last week.

To guide the Davids, Idol brought in two final mentors in the form of Clive Davis and Andrew Lloyd Webber. The first one makes sense, being a legendary hit maker and all, but again with the Lloyd Webber. . . I don't totally get it. Before we get to the singing, though, I have some thoughts which you can check out if you

Who Will Be the Next American Idol?

BuzzSugar — Wed, 21 May 2008 05:40:41 -0700

We're down to the two Davids after weeks of competition and, just like last year, I actually think we have two good, different options on our hands with these finalists. Will it be the squeaky clean kid with the pretty voice, or the rock-and-roll bartender with a knack for turning any song into his own? Photo courtesy of Fox

Who Will Be the Next American Idol?

David Cook

David Archuleta

American Idol Rundown: The Final Two Revealed

BuzzSugar — Thu, 15 May 2008 09:13:16 -0700

American Idol said goodbye to one of the final three on Wednesday which gives us our 2008 top two finalists. Of the three above, many could have predicted two of them would make it this far (ahem! Davids) and one has shocked many by fighting her way to the top. So was there an Idol upset? Or do the top two look the way many of us expected? To see some of my thoughts and discuss, just

American Idol Rundown: Triple Threat?

BuzzSugar — Wed, 14 May 2008 09:41:26 -0700

The final three American Idol contestants had one more chance on Tuesday to show why they belonged in the finale . . . and honestly, I'm not sure any of them proved they really deserved to win. To be fair, I remember similar poor showings from the final three in other years; at this point, spots in the finals are so coveted that people tend to get safe and deliver mediocre performances. But I can't shake the feeling that all three of these contestants peaked earlier this season — Syesha last week, David Cook a few weeks back, David Archuleta in the first weeks of the finals — and now are just riding this thing out along with the rest of us.

Which of the trio do you think is done? Don't forget to cast your vote, and to hear my thoughts on the night's performances and share your own, just

Which American Idol Contestant is Going Home Next?

BuzzSugar — Wed, 14 May 2008 05:30:42 -0700

Three contestants, three songs each, three chances to show they could be the next American Idol. This year's top trio — the two Davids and Syesha — battled it out on Tuesday night for a spot in next week's Idol finale. Which of the three do you think will be going home before the big event? Photo courtesy of Fox

Which American Idol Contestant is Going Home Next?

David Archuleta

David Cook

Syesha Mercado

American Idol Elimination: The Top Three Revealed

BuzzSugar — Thu, 08 May 2008 05:30:03 -0700

American Idol cut its field to three on Wednesday, meaning one of the singers we've come to know and love – or, well, at least know — has reached the end of the competition. Which of the singers above bid Idol a fond farewell? To find out and talk about it, just

American Idol Rundown: The Top Four Try to Rock You

BuzzSugar — Wed, 07 May 2008 09:40:13 -0700

The remaining four American Idol contestants had a chance to prove they could rock out on Tuesday. By picking songs from the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame songbook, they had a huge portion of music history open to them. So would you have expected one of the song picks to be "Hungry Like the Wolf"?

Beyond that, Tuesday's performance night fell flat in a lot of ways; nobody really impressed me — including this year's anointed "rocker." Were you similarly let down? Don't forget to vote for which singer is going home, and for my take, just

Which American Idol Contestant Is Going Home Next?

BuzzSugar — Wed, 07 May 2008 06:30:23 -0700

After tonight, we'll be down to three on American Idol! The top four took on songs from artists in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame on Tuesday night, striving for just the right balance between modern and classic. Who knocked it out of the park — and who was completely off-base? Make your prediction for who's going home now!Photo courtesy of Fox

Which American Idol Contestant Is Going Home Next?

David Archuleta

David Cook

Jason Castro

Syesha Mercado

Rewind: This Week's Buzz

BuzzSugar — Sat, 03 May 2008 08:00:36 -0700

I can't tell you how much fun I had at the Tribeca Film Festival this year. In addition to making new friends, I saw some terrific (if quirky) movies, like The Wackness, Trucker, and Bart Got a Room. I also gave a word of warning for the bleak and disturbing Savage Grace which still makes me feel kinda icky.
I saw The Life Before Our Eyes, a movie adapted from my April book club selection and I found the movie to be visually gorgeous but also puzzling. Ah well, the book was still a lovely read. Which reminds me — check out my May selection for the book club.
The title Made of Honor confused me and much of the blogosphere this week. Baffling non-puns aside, the movie was, well, boring. All is not lost, though, because it gave me an excellent picture for the Caption It contest.
Woo-hoo! May is going to be a fun month! I've rounded up some of my must-haves for the month, including the Sex and the City movie. Speaking of which, I put together a slideshow all about the essential episodes to catch before the big movie release on May 30.
American Idol was shaping up to be a bit of a snoozer with the Neil "Sparkly Tops" Diamond songbook. But then, just when I was about to doze off, PaulaGate came crashing through. What did you think about her little on-air hiccup?
So now that shows like Gossip Girl and Grey's Anatomy are back in full swing are you still watching as much TV? Or are there some shows you've quit?
There were some cool and even moving music videos out this week, like this one from R.E.M. and an important message from Radiohead. Coldplay even gave us a glimpse of a song from their upcoming album.
Finally, if you're looking for entertainment this weekend I highly recommend seeing Iron Man in the theaters and settling in Sunday night for the season premiere of This American Life on Showtime.

American Idol Elimination: Who Are the Final Four?

BuzzSugar — Thu, 01 May 2008 06:30:00 -0700

Just three more weeks till this year's American Idol is crowned! Which of the five smiling singers pictured above couldn't make it past the rigors of Neil Diamond week and was sent home on Wednesday? To find out, just

"PaulaGate" Post-Off: Your Theories, Please!

BuzzSugar — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 16:30:19 -0700

The more I think about Paula Abdul's now-infamous slip-up — criticizing a song that was yet to be performed on last night's American Idol — the more ridiculous it gets. Popwatch has a report from inside the auditorium on what they've dubbed PaulaGate, saying even the audience was audibly snickering as Paula launched into her critique.

Paula's since given two explanations for what happened — one that she accidentally gave Jason Castro the critique meant for David Cook, the other that she gave Jason feedback based on her notes from the dress rehearsal. Considering that Paula's feedback for Jason was negative but her comments for David were positive, the first theory seems pretty implausible — but the second one could make some sense.

Of course, there are a few other possibilities, too — namely that Idol is more scripted than it claims to be and/or that Paula is crazier than we even thought. So, consider this your opportunity to post your conspiracy theories on PaulaGate and Idol in general. Is it scripted? Does it bother you that the judges could give feedback based on a performance the rest of us didn't see? Is Paula just nutso? If you haven't seen the video yet, check it out after the jump. If you're ready to weigh in, just

American Idol Rundown: Neil Diamond Night

BuzzSugar — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 09:30:12 -0700

I always look forward to the moment in the American Idol season where the contestants start singing two songs per night. Not only does it make the whole show move a lot faster, but it also demonstrates what the contestants can do under more pressure and given the chance to really show off different sides of their singing styles.

That said, Neil Diamond night was a mess — not the least because of Paula, who amazingly criticized Jason Castro for a song before he'd performed it. I'm sure she had notes from the dress rehearsal and whatnot, but still, it was the first time I think I've ever seen Seacrest rattled (his panicked look offstage was telling). Also, going through the first half of the show without judges' comments was an interesting choice, but it actually made the flow of the show feel even more rushed than it needed to be — and none of the contestants really got a meaningful critique on both songs.

Overall, I thought the night was just OK — no real standouts from the contestants at the top of the pecking order, no real challenges from those at the bottom. What did you think? Don't forget to tell me which singer you think is headed home, and to hear my take on their songs, just

Which American Idol Contestant is Going Home Next?

BuzzSugar — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 05:30:13 -0700

Good times never seemed so good? The top five American Idol contestants sang the songs of Neil Diamond on Tuesday — words that, frankly, I never thought I'd type. So, how did they do? And whose interpretation will land them a one-way ticket back home? Photo courtesy of Fox

Rewind: This Week's Buzz

BuzzSugar — Sat, 26 Apr 2008 08:00:00 -0700

In addition to ABC's Thursday night lineup returning from the strike-induced break, the CW got its teen (and slacker) drama on with the return of Gossip Girl and a new episode of Reaper. One magazine even crowned GG the best show ever, but what show do you think reigns supreme over all teenage dramas?
Guess what? I'm off to the Tribeca Film Festival and am so excited and curious to see some of the movies I've been previewing all week, including a film with Mariah Carey in it. She's everywhere!
If you're planning a wedding these days (or helping a friend) I came up with a couple of tips for choosing music and some playlists that might be helpful including some oldies, a few indie dance songs, some '70s and '80s hits, and a couple of slow jams. And another tip: Here are some movies you definitely should not watch if you're about to head down the aisle.
In TV, news Alicia Silverstone is going to play a mom on an ABC pilot and J. Lo (oopsies, Jennifer Lopez) is getting a reality show. And um, is Cashmere Mafia canceled? Because Lucy Liu's got a new gig. Someone I really want to get a job is Lauren Graham —what role should she tackle next?
If you missed How I Met Your Mother, I've got you covered with a clip of "Sandcastles in the Sand". Speaking of cheesy '80s flashbacks: I'm recasting Hey Dude!
OK, American Idol plus Andrew Lloyd Webber officially equals a bad idea. How painful was that night? Were you surprised by who went home this week?
There was a lot of good music leaking onto the web this week, too, including more of Scarlett Johansson's Tom Waits covers, a song from My Morning Jacket's upcoming album, and the whole Madonna album on MySpace!
We reached the end of the line for The Life Before Her Eyes. Stay tuned for the announcement of my May book club pick!

American Idol Rundown: Who's in the Top Five?

BuzzSugar — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 05:30:46 -0700

There comes a point in every American Idol season when it begins to occur to me that America and I must not be watching the same show. And in this season, that point came Wednesday night. Anyone else feel like they were in bizarro world? To see who's safe for Neil Diamond week and who headed home, just

American Idol Rundown: The Top Six On Broadway

BuzzSugar — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 09:38:55 -0700

You know how Simon often cuts down American Idol contestants by telling them their song was "too cabaret"? This week, that would have been a compliment. The top six had the unenviable task of having to take on songs by musical theater legend Andrew Lloyd Webber, and while I can't say I understand what singing Broadway has to do with being a viable, chart-topping pop star, I'm willing to make the stretch. Well, sort of — to be honest, listening to bad Broadway is actually lower on my list of things to do than listening to bad Mariah Carey imitations.

That said, it was interesting to see which contestants made the most of Lord Andrew's catalog — and which were swallowed up by the theme. Don't forget to vote for the singer you think is going home, and to check out my thoughts, just

Which American Idol Contestant Is Going Home Next?

BuzzSugar — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 05:30:17 -0700

It's really starting to feel like crunch time on American Idol. The six final contestants (remember way back when we still had 24?) did their best Broadway impressions on Tuesday, belting the show tunes of Andrew Lloyd Webber. Which contestant will be only a "Memory" after tonight? Make your choice below!Photo courtesy of Fox

Rewind: This Week's Buzz

BuzzSugar — Sat, 19 Apr 2008 07:30:37 -0700

The Beverly Hills Chihuahua movie got a poster that hilariously helps us out with pronunciation. Honestly, I think I'm more excited for the little talking dogs than the new Dane Cook flick. How about you?
Mariah Carey's appearance on American Idol not only brought out some surprising performances, but also a smoking hot Ms. Carey. She looked awesome and I'm happy for her. Kristy Lee Cook was sent home which was probably a long time coming, though it's a little ironic since I think she put in one of her best performances of the season.
MTV premiered the 20th season of Real World this week and let's just say the casting has, um, come a long way — to put it nicely. However, if Real World is no longer your thing, The Paper also premiered on MTV and it looks fun. Did you watch it? What did you think?
Project Runway news continues to pop up as LIfetime develops several spin-offs. Bravo isn't sitting idly by, however, and announced its own programming plans this week.
I featured a diverse collection of trailers this week including The Wackness, The House Bunny, Helen Hunt's directorial debut Then She Found Me, and The Battle in Seattle.
Remember when I was excited about Maya Rudolph and John Krasinski being cast in a movie together? Well now the movie has a name and Allison Janney!
In other casting news, there is talk of a Teen Witch remake starring Ashley Tisdale. My befuddlement at '80s remake mania aside, this news reminded me of one of the greatest rap scenes of all time which you simply must watch.
Author Jennifer Weiner is on board to help ABC develop more programming aimed at women. As for current female-centric hit shows, Samantha of Samantha Who? is the focus of this week's Caption It contest.

American Idol Rundown: Who Made the Final Half-Dozen?

BuzzSugar — Thu, 17 Apr 2008 09:30:15 -0700

We're down to six on American Idol, which means one of the smiling faces above won't be around for Andrew Lloyd Webber week. Which singer won't be gracing the Idol stage again? For the answer, just

American Idol Rundown: Mariah Times Seven

BuzzSugar — Wed, 16 Apr 2008 09:30:30 -0700

If you asked me if I wanted to sit through an hour of Mariah Carey karaoke, my answer would be an emphatic no. But there I found myself on Tuesday, watching the top seven American Idol contestants warble their way through the singer's catalog. Frankly, it wasn't as bad as I expected — mostly thanks to the guys, who had no choice but to change up their songs rather than go for straight-up Mariah impersonations.

Mariah herself seemed genuinely happy to be on Idol, and it was good to hear her giving actual constructive feedback to most of the contestants, asking them to change up the chorus or try some falsetto. Some took her advice and got good results; others ended up looking like poor Mariah imitators. Which contestants fell on which side of that line? Don't forget to vote for which singer you think is going home, and to hear my take, just

Which American Idol Contestant Is Going Home Next?

BuzzSugar — Wed, 16 Apr 2008 05:30:12 -0700

Diva mentor Mariah Carey was in the Idol house last night, and the contestants worked hard to prove they too have what it takes to be record-setting stars. Carey — who certainly seems to be everywhere all of a sudden — has a vocal range wider than a football field and has sold millions of records, so no pressure at all on the top seven when they took on her catalog, I'm sure! Which singer do you think failed to rise to the challenge and will be headed home next?Photo courtesy of Fox

Should Religion and Primetime TV Mix?

BuzzSugar — Fri, 11 Apr 2008 16:29:57 -0700

If it's a day ending in Y, there's probably an American Idol controversy a'brewing — and today's revolves around the subtle and not-so-subtle influence of religion on the show this year. It started with Dolly Parton's rendition of her single "Jesus and Gravity" last week, but it really kicked into high gear with this week's double performance of the song "Shout to the Lord." On Idol Gives Back the finalists used the lyric "my shepherd, my savior" to start the song; then, on Thursday, they performed it again with the words "my Jesus, my savior." (Here's the shepherd version, and here's the Jesus version.) The song angered a good number of people: Some wondered why Jesus was cut out of the first version, while others (like several of you) questioned why Idol was dealing with matters of religion in the first place. Spirituality isn't new in primetime, but it's rarely that direct. Eli Stone, for example, explores the idea that there is a higher purpose to life without directly mentioning a specific religion. Are you OK when religion is mixed in with your evening entertainment? Or would you prefer a separation of church and TV?Photos courtesy of Fox

Should Religion and Primetime TV Mix?

Yes. I think it's fine to acknowledge religious beliefs on TV.

No. I think spirituality is personal and not a matter for primetime.

Sometimes. When it's handled intelligently it's entertaining and enlightening.

Other (tell us below)