Idol Chatter & Voice Views

Well, on the eve of season nine of American Idol, it looks like the rumors are true.

It appears as though Simon Cowell is leaving the show. Here’s a link to the Associated Press article.

Simon apparently wants a new challenge, which means bringing his show “The X-Factor” to the U.S.

Because everyone knows America needs another reality show.

What will it mean for Idol?

My guess is, the show will go on.

I mean, it is the top-rated show in the nation. The singers, not the judges, are supposed to be the star attraction. Though sometimes those on the show seem to have forgotten that.

And if Idol can afford to pay Simon Cowell $36 million a year to judge the show and Ryan Seacrest millions more to host it … well, just imagine the money Idol is making.

Think producers are going to pull the plug on the show just because their star judge is leaving? I doubt it.

Not that replacing Simon will be easy. I can’t count the times I’ve listened to Randy critique a contestant, then listened to Paula say something nice.

Then it’s Simon turn to talk.

And, finally, I think to myself, someone isn’t afraid to tell the truth.

I’ve had that reaction when the performance the judges just watched was bad. And I’ve had that reaction when the performance the judges just watched was exceptional.

Nope, replacing Simon won’t be easy.

But look at the bright side. American Idol has almost an entire year to get it right.

And maybe, in the process, even more of the focus will be turned on the performers.

That wouldn’t be a bad development.