America’s Fascination with American Idol
American Idol continues to draw in viewers

Many people have tried in vain to explain or define American Idol’s wild success. There is no simple answer to this question, as American Idol’s popularity comes from multiple factors that combine into one show. American Idol was far from the first singing competition involving viewer participation on network television. Star Search held singing competitions and was popular for several seasons. However, it never ballooned into the pop culture phenomenon of American Idol.
American idol has reached its level of success due to a combination of marketing, casting, judging, hosting, and viewer participation. Part of the draw for audiences is the chemistry between American Idol judges themselves, who are often the brunt of scandal, criticism, and controversy for their words and actions. They keep the show more interesting and entertaining, livening up dull moments when the talent level of the performances are lacking.
Another reason why American Idol is successful as a show is because of the show’s smart casting. Although the focus of the show is the singing competition, the participants’ personalities play a major role in the success of the show. Viewers can more easily relate to the personalities on the show because they have not yet reached a level of fame that puts a wall between them and the general population. American Idol contestants are often girl/boy-next-door types who could be someone you know from down the street. The most successful talent shows that strike a cord with the audience knows to pick appealing characters that will make the audience care.
The American Idol marketing team is yet another aspect of its popularity. The marketing team has converted the show into a spectacle that receives billions of dollars of free publicity. Minor incidents on American Idol might make front-page headlines. Controversy against the show and criticism from former contestants actually help to promote the show even more, keeping its name in the minds of its audience even when it’s not currently airing. 
American Idol marketers have also utilized the Internet to promote buzz behind a show. The publicity team granted the public access to contestants through local media and the Internet, going beyond regular promotion, which usually focuses on television or newspapers.
One of the most powerful secrets to American Idol’s unsinkable popularity among viewers is its selection process. After the top twenty-four contestants are narrowed down to two, the final winner of the show is decided by the viewer vote. Although Simon Cowell or other judges might influence the votes to a degree, ultimately the decision lies in the viewer at home. The appeal lies in determining the success and stardom of a stranger across the country. The public gets to reward someone based on who they feel deserves to win. Making the audience feel like they have a say in someone’s future success as a star is one of the many reasons American Idol is favored by the public.