Some of you, I know, watch the country version of Idol, Nashville Star, even though it runs parallel with Idol itself. As I’ve said briefly before, there are things I like about it and things I cringe at in a big way. Two of the latter cringeworthy aspects were the overly nice-bordering-on-useless judges and the hosts (especially last season’s host, the highly, er, erratic Wynonna). So it’s good to see there’s at least the potential for improvement in those areas next season (which starts Jan. 11 on USA). They’ve already announced that Jewel is the new host, which doesn’t make much sense on the face of it, but she at least is smart and funny and might even get to show off those qualities. Cowboy Troy of Big & Rich will return as co-host; he did a pretty good job under trying conditions (that is, Wynonna) last year, so that may work out. Now they’ve named new judges. They’re keeping Nashville scenester Anastasia Brown, who has oscillated between the Paula and Simon roles in her two previous seasons, and — in place of country star Phil Vassar, who was not as eccentric but probably equally sugary as Paula, and a rotating group of guest judges — are introducing country artists Blake Shelton and Alabama singer Randy Owen. Will they add any appreciable wit, bite or insight? The show’s track record indicates that’s unlikely, but you can always hope.
Idol Chatter
I don’t get the Jewel hosting thing either? I hope they get her teeth fixed before she does the show or at least instruct her to cover them up with the mic.
