by Tyler Gloe

Created on: March 18, 2010

Boasting the ability to captivate its viewers, American Idol has become a cultural phenomenon. One of the main reasons that it is such a hit is because of the fact that viewers are intrigued by the fact that the show can take a person on any walk of their life and transform them into a superstar. Even if it is a rigged environment, it provides a vast amount of entertainment with each season.

One of the main reasons that it is such a hit is because of the judges. Of course, Simon Cowell is the favorite of most viewers. He is known to speak his mind, and isn't afraid to insult the contestants. If it was terrible, he will let them know straight forward. In the past, there has been many changes in the judges. However, the longest standing judge panel included Simon Cowell, Randy Jackson, and Paula Abdul. More recently, Paula was removed from the show, and Ellen Degeneres, Kara Dioguardi were added to the panel. 

If you are unfamiliar with American Idol, they kick off each season by traveling around America and hosting tryouts for the contestants. This part of the season is interesting as there are great singers, horrendous singers, and everything in between. After they have a large amounts of contestants, they will begin to slowly choose who will stay and who will leave. In the beginning, the judges will decide, but when it comes closer to the finale, America votes by either texting or calling in to vote for their favorite contestants.

After the American Idol has been decided, many times they will become huge hits in the music market. They earn a contract deal, and there have been many famous American Idols. Some that have made it very large in the industry include David Cook, Carrie Underwood, and Jordin Sparks. The contestants don't need to win the entire contest to make it large. Contestants like Adam Lambert and Chris Daughtry have also emerged in the industry, even though they didn't finish 1st. 

Overall, American Idol has intrigued viewers because it features the total transformation of the contestants' lives. Also, viewers are appealed by the idea that they are able to vote and follow their favorite contestants. There has been a large amount of controversy in the past, and America usually follows each season very closely. The judges add an interesting spice to the show. In all, American Idol is a unique show that has captivated its viewers.  

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