American Idol fans are already aware that season 22 is Katy Perry’s final run as a judge on the show. She’ll be off to pursue music again, focusing on that side of her career. Life is short, so I totally understand Katy’s choice to remove Idol from her schedule to go after other goals. Especially in light of American Idol alum Mandisa passing away yesterday, a sad reminder that no one is promised another day.
Mandisa was on American Idol in 2005 with the original show judges Simon Cowell, Paula Abdul, and Randy Jackson. Since then the show has gone through a short list of judges, even one season with 4 judges. Three seems to be the magical number though, and for the last 7 seasons the judges were Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie, and Katy Perry. With Katy leaving, there will be a spot open for a new (or previous) judge. At the time of this post, only a few names have popped up as possible replacements, even Taylor Swift getting a little notoriety as the next judge. Aim for the sky, I guess, right? I agree that they need someone big, current, trendy, talented, and who commands respect in the industry and Taylor fits all of that. But does she have the time? Doubtful. Someone else who would be a great judge but who probably doesn’t have the time… Dolly Parton. I’d love to listen to her critiques and praises for folks trying out for the show.
Let’s be honest, though… most fans miss the unabashed opinions of Simon Cowell. I’m adding his name to the list of possibilities, along with the following which are a mix of previous judges, various show mentors, and other folks I think would be be great as judges.
Jelly Roll
Ben Platt
Jennifer Lopez
Simon Cowell
Randy Jackson
Kelly Clarkson
Teddy Swims
Alanis Morissette
Dolly Parton
Some would do fine, others would be too nice, but none of them would be as constructive (or destructive?) and honest as Simon. So I’ve got my fingers crossed it’ll be someone like Simon, if not Simon himself. The ratings would certainly tick upwards if he were to return. Who would you suggest as the next judge? Chime in below!
-Out of the Wilderness
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