‘American Idol’ Fans Say Network Wrecking Show For Judges’ Pay
By
John Witiw
May 23, 2025
American Idol News Reality TV
'American Idol' - YouTube
American Idol first premiered in 2002 and, since then, fans have seen some things change while others stay the same. Of course, one aspect fans know won’t remain static is the judging panel, which has gone through a lot of big names over the years. However, fans are starting to wonder if the judges, and their current paychecks, are impacting the show and not for the better.
Fans Are Musing About Things They Missed About The Early Days Of American Idol
American Idol recently returned for its 23rd season, ending on May 18, 2025. This time, Luke Bryan, Carrie Underwood, and Lionel Richie taking on judging duties.
Over the years, fans have seen a variety of judges on the show. The first season started things off with Paula Abdul, Simon Cowell, and Randy Jackson in the role. Other notable names in the role over the years included Nicki Minaj, Katy Perry, and Ellen DeGeneres.
American Idol judges via YouTube
American Idol judges – YouTube
However, fans have noticed something off about the show in recent years. On social media, one fans shared they were worried the show was “getting cheap.” As they continued, “Normally they fly the final 3 to do the New York press. Noticed today it’s only the winner on Good Morning America and Kelly and Mark.”
Some Fans Have Also Been Drawing Comparisons With Idol & Other Current Competition Shows
Other fans shared similar sentiments, noticing that the show’s budget seems to have decreased over the years. As one noted, “Another thing i miss that the show used to do was house the top 12 (maybe top 24?) in a huge mansion that they called the American idol house.”
“During each episode there would be a segment where the contestants all sat down around a fancy dinner table and eat a meal they cooked together and discuss how the cutdowns went or who thinks who’s going home. Now the contestants just stay in a hotel.”
Fans also shared their theories as to why the popular show is cutting costs. As one fan suggested, “Shame that FOX cheaps out on contestants when they overpay salaries for judges who do not judge anything.”
Taking to the credits, fans shared other ways they felt that the show has been cutting back over the years. A few even compared the modern American Idol with other competition series. Some comments included:
“It’s funny how The Voice was on the same cadence and had their finale was the same week. Did you see the production quality of their performances? I know it’s not the same but each Voice performance is a mini concert with the set, dancers, etc.”
“This is also the first year that they didn’t do the Live with Kelly and Mark/Ryan encore performance.”
“Network is wrecking the show bit by bit.”
“Would love to hear more from the runners up as well.”
What do you think about American Idol in recent years? Is there anything you miss about the show’s earlier seasons? Make sure you come back to TV Shows Ace for all the latest reality TV and celebrity news.
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