Look, I'm no American Idol, myself...

…but why isn’t anyone worried about Ruben’s morbid obesity? Sweating profusely after 3 seconds of singing does not make an Americon Idol, in my book…

However the borderline-leprechaun can’t win either: what’s with the Jim-Carrey-Contortion faces, Clay?

So that pretty much sums up my only experience “watching” American Idol… I’ve not followed this show (neither last year or this year). Watching these “artists” dressed in clown costumes, yelling, not singing, into the microphone with pseudo-soul was perhaps the most boring television I’ve ever seen.

If nothing else, I’ve become completely convinced that this is exactly what that special place in Hell for bad record producers and tribute bands looks like.

How can they stretch this absurdity out for 3 days, much less an entire season?

I spent the day interacting with teenagers (relax, folks, it’s my job)… some were even of the flighty type. However, try as I might, I couldn’t imagine these kids poised by their telephone, ready to vote in what’s most definitely a rigged election and ready to throw their parents’ hard earned money buying this blatently manufactured music.

And here’s a question: what ever happened to LAST year’s winner? I mean, sure, her name comes up every once in a while… But can anyone say… “FLOGGING A DEAD HORSE?” Why would anyone be interested in this farce when it’s obvious how meaningless the results will be?

This is one fad I am very glad to have missed… it also makes me weep for our future. Is it any wonder people hate American opulence?