Paula Abdul: 23 Possible ‘American Idol’ replacements
Pro: A former Idol winner returns. That in itself is a hook, but Clarkson has earned a reputation as someone who isnt afraid to speak her mind, even when it goes against the company line. Additionally, Clarkson is still a star, no doubt, but its safe to say shes not at the heights that she was when Since U Been Gone was one of the songs that defined pop music in 2004. This gives her a chance to win back the public.
Con: Very few, but her candor and lack of fear in criticizing her record label may hurt her chances in the minds of the Idol powers that be. But its a daring move, and the potential for tension is more than intriguing.
Pro: The pop-gone-country singer has already shown she can be a judge. Jewel was the music biz voice of reason on Nashville Star, and on American Idol, she could be positioned to more readily challenge Kara DioGuardi . Its worth noting that Jewel has had a successful country career, and the genre has been kind to Idol vets (see Carrie Underwood, Kellie Pickler). Finally, theres less of an opportunity to get injured behind a judging desk, as Jewel was unable to appear on Dancing With the Stars due to tendinitis issues.
Con: Paula was often the wacky comic relief on Idol. Jewel may simply be too articulate.
--Todd Martens, Latimes.com(Christopher Berkey / For the Los Angeles Times)