Idol Exec Refutes Rosie's "Racist, Weightist" View
This just came in from
American Idol executive producer Nigel Lythgoe, regarding statements Rosie O'Donnell made on Tuesday's
The View about
Idol's seeming double standard vis-à-vis
Frenchie vs Antonella:
"Without wishing to add to the obvious self-promotion of Ms. O'Donnell, I feel as though I must refute her absurd and ridiculous claims that
American Idol is racist and/or weightist. Ms. O'Donnell has, once again, spoken without thought or knowledge. Viewers need only look at the show tonight to realize that
American Idol constantly confirms to America that talent has nothing to do with weight or color."
UPDATE: TMZ.com is now reporting that
Idol is further retaliating against Rosie and
The View by forbidding the ABC talker from showing clips from television's highest-rated series.
UPDATE: On Wednesday's
Idol, Simon Cowell gave Antonella Barba props for her fortitude in the midst of the media circus, if not for her singing. "I feel for you because you've taken a lot of stick in the media, and you've handled yourself well. I don't think anyone should be thrown into that situation." That said, Simon expressed his doubt that Antonella would survive this week's vote, shrugging, "I just wish you could sing better."
