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I am a big fan of the X Factor in England and always tune in to American Idol on British Television also. I find that for me the best part of these series are the auditions. Some good, some not so good and some downright hilarious, albeit unintentionally. Every year I vow to only watch the auditions but I am sucked in before I realise it. By the time the finalists are selected I am well and truly hooked.

Lots of the final contestants have huge amounts of talent. However, as in the English show, it is not always those who win through. A culmination of popularity, good looks and personality can push mediocre singers to the forefront. Last year's competition, which until near the final had Sanjiya looking like a contender, was no different. As a very pretty boy, with an apparently nice personality, Sanjiya seemed to do no wrong. In the early stages of the competition he had a good voice. Unfortunately this did not last. This could be because of nerves but each week his performance had deteriorated. As better singers went and he remained you have to wonder about the talent this show produces. Having said that though many of the 'also rans' end up achieving recording success and some measure of fame also.

Previous winners have usually been very talented but it seems that even entrants who exited this show in the early stages have become famous. Some such as William Hung became famous as a laughing stock. That may sound cruel but he had little talent but caught the audiences imagination. He is now a famous personality who is much sought after and does seem like a great guy. He is not s singer though and certainly not a talented one.

This year's, 2008, American Idol is back as big as ever. In England we are now viewing the final twelve contestants. There are some great ones among them, and one or two stand-out performers, both males and females.It remains to be seen who wins the final crown but also who manages to build a career out of their time on American Idol.

Thinking back to the times when singers and entertainers worked at their craft for many years touring, learning and gradually becoming famous things have certainly changed. American Idol often produces almost overnight successes and elevates the contestants to celebrity status as quickly. There are a whole group of famous celebrities to have come out of American Idol. One only hopes that eventually they don't lose this status as quickly as they achieved it. Oh I don't know though maybe we do.

Learn more about this author, Ethel Smith.
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