New Judges for American Idol

Popular television singing competition American Idol has revealed the secret-that-everyone-knew: star music figures Jennifer “J.Lo” Lopez and aging rocker Steven Tyler will be joining the Idol judging panel. The star duo are joined by returning Idol judge Randy Jackson, with Ellen DeGeneres, Simon Cowell and Kara DioGuardi leaving the judging panel.

Simon Cowell will be sorely missed from the judges as critics wonder if any of the new judges will possess the same razor-sharp talent for determining who ‘has it’ or doesn’t. Cowell’s no-feelings-spared assessments were critical in balancing out the softer judging style of the rest of the panel and there are fears the two new judges bring none of the clarity. Tyler is reportedly unable to answer even simple questions in a clear and concise manner, and Lopez is said to possess the same airy reasoning as former star judge Paula Abdul who left the show in 2009.

The two new judges do have their strengths; Lopez understands the importance of packaging, as the diva herself is arguable more about packaging, sex appeal and stage performance than actual vocal ability. Tyler on the other hand brings the experience of a gritty rocker who has been to the bottom of addiction and reinvented himself to come out on top; he understands the power of perseverance. With flagging viewer numbers last season, the question on everybody’s minds is, with no ‘meanies’ on the judging panel, will the two new judges have enough clout between them to make the show watchable?