American Idol Cancellation: Alums Share Their Thoughts

05/11/2015 mj santilli American Idol 161

Overshadowing ALL of the network primetime announcements today, is the news that American Idol will leave the airwaves after its 15th season in 2016. While we fans reminisce about what a wild, fun, frustrating, emotional, sentimental and crazy ride it’s been following this remarkable show, let’s consider the folks whose lives the groundbreaking series changed.

Check out the reactions from the contestants who went through the American Idol gauntlet and came out of the other side with careers in the music business.

Ryan also released a statement:

“American Idol has been a big part of my life for so long, it’s frankly hard to imagine it without it. It’s been a remarkable journey, and I feel very fortunate to have been part of a show that made television history in countless ways. It’s a show about chasing and fulfilling dreams, and truth be told, it helped some of my own dreams come true, too. All the American Idol producers, judges, crew and everyone at Fox have been heroic in their efforts to create, produce and sustain such a groundbreaking show for so many years. I’m so glad they’re going to give us a season-long send off. The last season will undoubtedly be a special and emotional one, but first I’m looking forward to closing out Season 14. The finale is always my favorite part — two live shows with lots of surprises, and, of course, one winner!”

Simon also released a statement:

“We had a blast! Me, Paula, Randy, Ryan — and not forgetting Brian. Thanks to the fans we were able to make some great shows and found some amazing artists. Fox took a risk on a brand new show and I want to thank them for giving us the opportunity. They really were great times.”

Former producer Nigel Lythgoe weighs in with Meredith Viera

Nigel Lythgoe shares his thoughts with Billboard:

It’s the right thing to do,” said Lythgoe, adding that it’s about preserving the show’s legacy. “I’m a huge fan of boxing, and it’s like when you’re watching a real heavyweight boxer getting to the end of their career, and all these young whippersnappers are coming up: You’ve got to know when to retire. It brought people’s attention to buying records. Judging by the amount of sales, whether it’s downloading or actually purchasing a [physical product], Idol uplifted the music industry without question…Mariah and Nicki was just crazy, and then it really started becoming about the judges and took away from the contestants altogether. I think that was a major failing on the part of casting to have those two together. On their own, either one may have been successful.”

Jordin Sparks weighs in with Meredith Viera

Clay Aiken on ‘American Idol’ Ending: ‘It Was About The Kid Next Door Making it Big’

Adam Lambert shared with Idol Worship, “They had a great run,” Lambert tells Billboard. “And thank you, Idol, because I wouldn’t be here without you.”

Kellie Pickler, Melinda Doolittle, Constantine Maroulis, Scotty McCreery, Jon Peter Lewis, Taylor Hicks, and more share their thoughts with Billboard Magazine.

Idol was groundbreaking television. I am very fortunate to have won the show at the time. Idol changed my life and I am thankful. Looking forward to an entertaining final season.”
— Taylor Hicks, season 5 winner

“American Idol changed the face of television and music forever! As a fan of the show, I’m definitely sad. As a former contestant, I’m forever grateful. And as an optimist, I can’t wait to see what this last season will hold!”
— Melinda Doolittle, season 5

About mj santilli 34967 Articles
Founder and editor of mjsbigblog.com, home of the awesomest fan community on the net. I love cheesy singing shows of all kinds, whether reality or scripted. I adore American Idol, but also love The Voice, Glee, X Factor and more!
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