American Idol Judging Based on Dress Rehearsal Performances: Truths and Myths

Those who've been an astute "American Idol" watcher for the past seven seasons have probably noticed Randy, Paula and Simon talking amongst themselves while a contestant is up on stage pouring out his or her heart and soul singing to win over America. The judges probably thought nobody would notice--especially because The Triumvirate is sitting in the dark at their judging table while the contestant performs. However, in the age of digital TV, most people can probably detect what Paula's actually drinking in that Coke cup, let alone probably dozens of other things we don't care to know or see. When you see the judges engaged in the middle of conversation (or is it just goofing off?) during a performance, it sets off a clue to a procedure that "American Idol" has tried to keep quiet since the beginning.

Of course, it's ironic that what might have given away the reality (how ironic in a reality show) that the three judges base their opinions on the dress rehearsal is Paula Abdul's confusion on thinking Mr. Dreadlocks Jason Castro sang twice during the April 29 show with Neil Diamond. Well, yes, Jason did sing his first song twice--and Ryan Seacrest saying that Paula was looking into the future, babe, just seemed to give an indication that "Idol" sweeps some of their secrets under a plush rug. That isn't the only secret they've sweep under there either if you've read my other articles on "Idol" published here on Associated Content since 2007. Why the show continues to hide things when telling the truth would give them a better identity is sometimes hard to figure out.