by Lindsay Fahey

Created on: January 25, 2010   Last Updated: January 26, 2010

American Idol without Simon. It just doesn't sound right. Although this debate has been going on for a couple of years, now it has the most relevance since Simon recently announced that he will be leaving the show after the ninth season. It is a sad time for Idol fans. Simon is the backbone of the entire show. It's hard to say exactly how this came about, considering most people call the snide Brit the "King of Mean", however, his opinion seems to be the only one that people trust. Obviously, the show is about aspiring singers and their performances and whatnot, but the judges make up half the show for sure. It's their opinions many times that the public relies on, and Simon's opinion is the most influencial. He isn't too mean. If you are a singer and you go on a show where you will get judged like that, expect it.

Simon's opinion is like midas and gold. I haven't really seen the guy be wrong once either. Mr. Cowell not on Idol comes across as a sweet, loyal Brit. He's not a bad guy, just honest with goofy, British catchphrases. "It's like you're going to sing at a bad luncheon." and other stuff of that nature. I personally think he's hilarious and brilliant, the combination of which has gained Cowell legions of fans. However, with Simon gone, it's not as if there won't be any experts on the panel. Randy Jackson is a renowned music producer, who can be as tough as Simon. He's had as much experience in the music industry, so his opinion should be counted as well. Kara Dioguardi is also a song writer and producer. Her opinion has meant gold for artists such as Hilary Duff and Celine Dion, so why shouldn't we trust her?

This season is also exciting because Ellen Degeneres will be on as a judge, representing "real people." Some people fear she doesn't have the music experience to be judging, but lets face it, a comedian on the panel will lighten things up. Paul Abdul is also gone, which may or may not have influenced Simon's decision to exit Idol after nine seasons. Their banter was a classic part of Idol and will certainly be missed. However, last year's Idol runner up Adam Lambert was on Oprah, and she asked him about Simon's departure. He said that it will be a loss, but people watch the show for the contestants and get behind a person and support them, so the show should be fine. Do we watch for the contestants, or one all knowing Brit? I guess after this season, we will know for sure.

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