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Entertainment & Arts

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 isn’t afraid to speak her mind, even when it goes against the company line. Additionally, Clarkson is still a star, no doubt, but it’s safe to say she’s not at the heights that she was when “Since U Been Gone” was one of the song’s 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 it’s a daring move, and the potential for tension is more than intriguing. --Todd Martens, Latimes.com

Pro: A former “Idol” winner returns. That in itself is a hook, but Clarkson has earned a reputation as someone who isn’t afraid to speak her mind, even when it goes against the company line. Additionally, Clarkson is still a star, no doubt, but it’s safe to say she’s not at the heights that she was when “Since U Been Gone” was one of the song’s 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 it’s a daring move, and the potential for tension is more than intriguing.

--Todd Martens, Latimes.com  (Jemal Countess / Getty Images)

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Jewel

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 . It’s 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, there’s 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)

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