Today was the return of AI! “American Idol” is back! The 10th season of the hit show began the signup process today in Nashville. Crowds braved the near 90 degree heat and turned up 10,000 strong at the Bridgestone Arena. The signup process will continue till Saturday and the auditions will begin at a later date.This year is milestone for “Idol” in many ways. First of all it is the show’s 10th season and for any TV show to make it through 10 years is a big achievement indeed. Next, the show has dropped its minimum age limit to 15, so you can expect Justin Bieber lookalikes and tiny-teeny-boppers to swamp the show (or at least the auditions).
Last of all, the missing Cowell factor could be telling on the ratings of the show. Hated or loved, Simon Cowell was the backbone of “Idol”. His decision to leave the show, while prudent on his part, may be the worst thing that ever happened to the show. With ratings steadily sliding over the last few years, the exit of Cowell was the last thing “Idol” needed. For reasons unknown, his replacement is still not evident. Neither is news on the future of Randy Jackson; whether we will see the “Dawg” return for season 10 or not remains on how contract negotiations concluded.
Since FOX has kept mum on the subject, we could see a double replacement for the male judges in the coming days.”American Idol” is scheduled to make audition stops at – Milwaukee, New Orleans, East Rutherford, Austin, and San Francisco.