Defending Ryan Seacrest—sorta
For those of you who’ve been anxiously awaiting my “American Idol” updates this year (are you out there, anyone?), I actually have been watching the show (shh, don’t tell!) and plan to post something when the time feels right.
All those who have no interest are hereby allowed—nay, encouraged—to skip this post.
In the meantime, for the rest of you—all two of you—host Ryan Seacrest is accused of having been cruel last night to rocker hunk Michael Johns. He added insult—or rather, teasing—to injury by making it seem as though maybe no one would be eliminated, but then immediately saying “You’re out!”
I watched it. Yes, it was mean. Poor Johns was barely holding it together as it was, anyway, although he managed (as they almost always do) to belt his swan song with more vigor, and more real emotion, than he’d managed to muster during the competition itself.
But in defense of the cruel cruel Ryan: wasn’t he just following the script?
Of course, “I was just following orders,” although a time-honored defense, is not a good one.
“Poor Johns was barely holding it together as it was, anyway, although he managed (as they almost always do) to belt his swan song with more vigor….”
Dear Neo,
Please. Seek professional help.*
Thank you,
G.
*No, that does not mean you can just talk to yourself.
The little tricks these people do for dramatic tension are pretty stupid. Then again, entertainment is not exactly a social dance.
So glad to find you watch it too, Neo. Do you have a favorite this season?
Johns was too good for the show.
Smartest player this year: Christie Lee Cook. She knows how to pick just the right song each week to get enough votes to stay in, even if she’s not the best singer. “God Bless the USA” was a brilliant move. Fans would feel a duty to vote for the song, even if they don’t like her. Now she’s gets all the country vote every week. Plus the guy vote. Call me an American Idol pundit.
Most over-rated: David Archeleto.
Yes, I’m embarrassed to say I’m also a closet fan.
I didn’t view Ryan’s comment about last year being safe as some sort of taunt against Johns.. I viewed as as the show emphasising how “serious” the competition was and the need for each performer to give it their best and not get lazy.
BTW: I loved McCain’s comment on the show. he looked great compared to the “GIVE MORE MONEY” Democrats.
Of course it’s a couple days after the fact, but I don’t think Ryan Seacrest was being cruel..merely matter-of-fact. I think he was surprised by the decision, as was the audience, the judges, me.
Michael Johns is great…I think he’ll do just fine without idol. Could be the best thing that ever happened to him.