In previous years, this was a ritual for me. To watch, comment, blog, react, invest, and dive into the culture phenomenon that... is... American Idol.
And now I find myself at a crossroads. While I certainly do not have much optimism for AI without Simon and with J-Lo and Aeroscream, I also don't want to be counted among any of the early rejectors who have decided that it just won't work, without having given it a shot.
So I'm giving myself through the first week of live shows, to see how the chemistry plays out, and to see if it's worth any investment of pop culture capital. It isn't just about the new hosts: it's about the contestants, as well as the other changes they have made to the format to make it successful. I'll be blogging about it - feel free to dive in and comment and react as I give as much of my unfiltered opinion as my own conscience will allow.
Are you watching?