Idol May Sing a Different Tune Next Season

• Apr 29, 2008 05:05 AM ET
• by TV Guide News

American Idol is still a big deal, with massive numbers of people tuning in each week. But, as TV Guide's Stephen Battaglio wrote last week, the numbers simply aren't as staggering as they used to be.

Fox, though, isn't just going to sit idle as they watch their success slowly erode. According to Broadcasting & Cable, Fox scheduling chief Preston Beckman acknowledges the slide, saying, "We're not in denial. It's still the biggest show on TV, but that doesn't mean there are things we can't do. The feedback from this year, you'll probably see on the show next year."

Just what kind of feedback does Fox want? A market research survey that surfaced last week (linked to by B&C) courts a broad range of information, but fundamentally tries to discover what's working, what's not and who or what audiences want more (or less) of in future seasons. Some of the aspects in play include how the audition process should be presented, which judges should pipe up (and which should pipe down), and how exactly Ryan Seacrest should fit into the show's fabric.

Questions that focus on the judges ask respondents to say how much each panelist contributes to their "overall enjoyment of American Idol," on a scale from "very important" to "not important at all." Another section invited respondents to agree or disagree with such statements as "I watch American Idol mostly to hear what Paula has to say" and "I like the interaction between the judges and Ryan."

Perhaps the most telling of the questions, however, is an agreement-rating statement that has nothing to do with the judges, Ryan or auditions. It reads: "I care who wins American Idol."

How would you rate the statement? While Fox is asking, what would you suggest to keep or ditch for next year and beyond? - Anna Dimond

Use our Online Video Guide to watch Idol.

Related:
" The Biz: Idol Still a Force, Even as Ratings Decline
" Idol Boss Talks Shocking Exits, Sliding Ratings
" Top 5 Power Rankings: Will Anyone Challenge the Davids?