"American Idol" (Fox)

It's the show that started the wave of reality singing competitions, and it once made for must-see TV. But "Idol" has been spiraling downward since the end of Season 5, and producers' only real attempt to freshen up the stale show has been to hire new celebrity judges who then became the story and overshadowed the competition that is supposed to result in at least one new music superstar a season. The oldies theme nights only... more 

"American Idol" (Fox)

It's the show that started the wave of reality singing competitions, and it once made for must-see TV. But "Idol" has been spiraling downward since the end of Season 5, and producers' only real attempt to freshen up the stale show has been to hire new celebrity judges who then became the story and overshadowed the competition that is supposed to result in at least one new music superstar a season. The oldies theme nights only add to the mustiness of the show (especially in comparison with the infinitely more contemporary "The Voice"). Also, while new judge Keith Urban offers the promise of some genuinely insightful feedback for the contestants, the alleged ongoing catfight between new judges Mariah Carey and Nicki Minaj threatens to become the focus of Season 12. less