'American Idol' Producer Blames 'The X Factor' and 'The Voice' for Bad Ratings
"American Idol" executive producer Nigel Lythgoe, says that "The X Factor" and "The Voice" are to blame for the slip in ratings in the show's 11th season.
Lythgoe criticized the shows competition in a press briefing on Tuesday, accusing "The Voice" of being "too gimmicky" and said that he thinks "they need stronger talent."
While "American Idol" still remains one of the top 10 most popular shows in primetime, it has dropped a long way down from its No. 1 spot, and from a decade of being the highest rating show in primetime.
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Lythgoe has received a lot of public criticism about these comments. According Jack Wishna, CEO of the world's first social music network Rockcityclub.com, Lythgoe is the one out of touch with how to develop real musical talent.
"Lythgoe is more concerned with ratings and staying the most watched television show, that he is losing focus on what true talent development really is," he said. "Developing talent, raw talent, is not about putting on a television show or poking fun at contestants."
It is speculated too, that the 2010 departure of Simon Cowell may also have caused a huge drop in the show's popularity.
Cowell who played a huge role in the show for a decade, was both loved and hated for his controversial insults, criticisms, and wisecracks about the contestants and their capabilities. Viewers tuned in for his signature phrase, "I don't mean to be rude, but ..."
Rumors have also been circulating too that current host Ryan Seacrest may also soon be leaving the show.
"I would hate to think of him leaving 'American Idol,' [he's the] glue that holds it all together," Lythgoe said about the popular TV and radio personality.
