So we already know American Idol 2013 won’t include judges Jennifer Lopez or Steven Tyler. And despite knowing more changes loom, that’s all we’ve got right now.
According to sources, producers Nigel Lythgoe and Ken Warwick are likely to return to produce American Idol , so that’s not changing. So what will? Does anyone even know? The Hollywood Reporter took a look at that question.
Sources tell THR that one of the first steps in retooling the program will be to cut production budgets and staff, including the exorbitant salaries for judges. (Fox declined comment for this report.) That doesn’t bode well when it comes to competing in a talent marketplace where Britney Spears is receiving $15 million to judge Cowell’s The X Factorand Christina Aguilera is only a few million behind on NBC’s The Voice. So who’s available for the more reasonable price tag of, say, $5 million? Contenders includeNicki Minaj, Fergie, will.i.am and even alums like (Carrie) Underwood and Adam Lambert, who have a unique perspective on the show.
“It’s next to impossible to regain past glory and relevance as the franchise has had more than its moment in the sun,” Jeff Rabhan, former manager of Kelly Clarkson and Clay Aiken, Told THR.”But if they were to change a small dynamic or update the competition by changing the rules, it could possibly invigorate the fan base. And if nothing else, viewers will tune in to see which celebrity judges have been hired.”
What changes would you like to see American Idol make?