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Love, 'American Idol' style

Posted: Tuesday, January 30, 2007 3:54 PM by Gael Fashingbauer Cooper
Filed Under:

Courtney Love is claiming that she's been approached to replace Paula Abdul as an "American Idol" judge, US Magazine reports.

The story is a little vague on specifics, which is not the first time "Courtney Love" and "vague" have been used in the same context. It's unclear whether Love would just sit in for one day, which could be entertaining, or if she is intended to replace Paula Abdul permanently, which would really just be trading one form of crazy for another.

The Superficial.com put it rather brilliantly when they wrote: “Yeah, Paula Abdul is usually drunk and incoherent, but if they put Courtney Love on the show she'd spend 90% of the time crawling on the floor crying and calling up old boyfriends to take her back.”

MSNBC.com contributor Andy Dehnart probably is right when he writes, on his Reality Blurred site, "As bizarre as Paula’s behavior has been, [permanently replacing her is] highly unlikely, especially because her behavior does nothing except increase the ratings. However, having Courtney Love serve as a guest judge for an episode—which is far, far more likely—would probably make Paula Abdul seem, comparatively speaking, completely normal."

But if "Idol" is going to go that route, there's a whole mess of Hollywood nutters they could approach. Sign Johnny Knoxville and have him test how the singers' voices are affected when they're forced to bob in a tub full of jellyfish. Get Kevin Federline on the panel for blindingly insightful musical knowledge. Call up Donald Trump -- if he's going to bellow about how popular a reality show is, he may as well be talking about one that really is popular.

Have a suggestion for a new "Idol" host? Post it in the comments, and tell us what they'd lend to the show.

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Comments

Next option: Weird Al Yankovic. He knows music and can verbalize just how bad the music is. GAG. If all of the press would simmer down on Paula may be she would not do crazy stuff to get the attention she craves and that the show thrives on.

Ann, Tallahassee, FL (Sent Wednesday, January 31, 2007 11:58 AM)

Paula is really getting on my nerves this season, as well as Randy. It seems like this whole Idol frenzy has gone to their heads. Simon is just Simon as usual and not as interesting as he used to be. The upside of watching Paula is never knowing what is going to come out of her mouth next. I just keep waiting on the edge of my seat to watch her lose it on national TV. It's gonna happen people, the girl has problems. A good replacement? Jenny McCarthy with Jim Carrey. No musical background, but how funny would that be?

Kristen, Ohio (Sent Wednesday, January 31, 2007 12:03 PM)

How about people just quit watching Idol so it will just finally go away. What an eyesore this program is.

Paul Hansen, Fargo, N.D. (Sent Wednesday, January 31, 2007 12:04 PM)

Why not replace Jackson or Simon with Ozzie Osborne. Then we could see courtney and ozzie slobber all over each other! By the way, in case noone has noticed, Courtney has as much talent as my pinky finger, or am I giving her too much credit?

michael w (Sent Wednesday, January 31, 2007 12:04 PM)

Back up and take a look at Tanya Tucker. Been there, done that, and has been singing since she was a child. She's very talented and not afraid to speak out. She can even do it without hurting feelings.

Joy Roeder, Garibaldi, Oregon (Sent Wednesday, January 31, 2007 12:04 PM)

I nominate Julie Andrews as a guest judge - she could bring some class to the show - which you have to admit gets tacky on occasion - and she is known to all generations since she was in Princess Diaries - having her on for a few shows would be great for the image of American Idol - it would bring some much needed integrity to the system -

Jo Sprouse (Sent Wednesday, January 31, 2007 12:09 PM)

I do like Paula,like they say why change a good thing...but if they must change why not Lisa marie Presley!!.

Terri S Illinois (Sent Wednesday, January 31, 2007 12:13 PM)

I suggest revamping the whole panel: Replace Paula with Whitney Houston (If we're going for crazy then hey.. who better). Replace Simon with Vince McMahon from WWE Championship Wrestling, and replace Randy with Cartman from South Park.. ("I'm not fat, I'm big boned")

Sean, Enid OK (Sent Wednesday, January 31, 2007 12:14 PM)

How about a John or Jane Doe? That way Idol would have the public's opinion. They don't have to have talent or be able ot sing, just be able to make an appropriate decision. Interesting thought>

Jane Doe (Sent Wednesday, January 31, 2007 12:14 PM)

I don't think the show would be the same without Paula. As for Courtney, she has no talent at all and is very hard on the eyes. Who is she to judge who can sing and who can't. What really are they thinking?

Janine, Cleveland, OH (Sent Wednesday, January 31, 2007 12:14 PM)

How about George W Bush? He would be right no matter what. He could be the decider based on his own delusions.

Mark San Antonio Texas (Sent Wednesday, January 31, 2007 12:15 PM)

I cannot even believe that "American Idol" would consider Courtney Love to replace Paula. Yes Paula has been acting kinda strange this season but I don't think she has done anything horrible or immoral. Courtney Love in my opnion has trashed her life and is No "Idol" for anyone. If the producers feel they need to replace Paula at least get someone that has some class please!! Everytime I see Courtney Love I think Drugs, Trashy, No Talent and Cheap!

M. Mcdonald (Sent Wednesday, January 31, 2007 12:22 PM)

whomever approached Courtney must have been hanging out and smokin' a joint with her.

Joan Higgins, Toronto, ON (Sent Wednesday, January 31, 2007 12:25 PM)

Paula was in the same era as Debbie Gibson & Tiffany...put someone who's singing career was huge but in the past just like Paula so that the time can be devoted to American Idol the way Paula has devoted her time in the past years.

Shawn Owens, Cadillac, MI (Sent Wednesday, January 31, 2007 12:26 PM)

NO NO NO, don't get rid of Paula. She gives the show that sparkle, not like Simmon with the same old sweatie t-shirts. Come on,Cortney Love, you might as well bring up Linda Lovelace up from the dead,yuk.

Larry-Kissimmee fl. (Sent Wednesday, January 31, 2007 12:27 PM)

If they replace Paula I will stop watching AI. Paula is just Paula and if that means train wreck behavior then so be it. She is more refreshing than bitter Simon we accept his vapid attitude. Name dropping Randy yeah he was in Journey we know! Why should Paula change? She danced with a cartoon cat for god's sake, she obviosly has a sense of humor. I'm 41 years old my friends and I have a viewing party each week and we love Paula.

Brent, San Diego (Sent Wednesday, January 31, 2007 12:27 PM)

I have never watched the show, and don't intend to. The format is too much like throwing the Christians to the lions, which is why it appeals to the masses. However, I might be persuaded to tune in if the venerable Little Richard replaced Paula Abdul. He has a long and extensive musical background, and his type of eccentricity doesn't verge on Ms. Abdul's pre-rehab behavior.

Nana, Tri-Cities, WA (Sent Wednesday, January 31, 2007 12:28 PM)

Just because Paula is having personal prolems she makes the show interesting and entertaining. Replacing her would be stupid. Maybe she needs a little time off.

April Angle, Cocoa, Fl (Sent Wednesday, January 31, 2007 12:28 PM)

I for one will stop watching if they replace Paula with Courtney Love. At least Paula has a cute personality and good sense of humor when she is not on whatever it is she is sometimes on. Courtney is just wierd and annoying. PLEASE NOT her!

Gerard White, Washington, DC (Sent Wednesday, January 31, 2007 12:29 PM)

I like Paula Abdul but she really nees to get herself together. The show wouldn't be the same without her. I think that Simon and Randy and Paula have a great chemistry.

Cindy, New Iberia, La. (Sent Wednesday, January 31, 2007 12:29 PM)

Why not Britney? Oops I forgot my panties?! Thats the only event that could truly entertain.

Spencer Simmons (Sent Wednesday, January 31, 2007 12:29 PM)

Why not put Ryan Seacreast in -- he's just hanging around outside the door anyway.

Patty D (Sent Wednesday, January 31, 2007 12:30 PM)

OMG! OZZY! That would be PRICELESS!

Carrie, Chicago, IL (Sent Wednesday, January 31, 2007 12:30 PM)

Cant someone realize that entertainment is great but as a mother of two teens that enjoy the show and myself included, worries me that already is bad enough that a woman my age, eats the young men (i have a son too) with her eyes, gets a bit too exited sometimes. If she was going to be replace then to do it with someone that add fun but knows about music and is not a bad role model for the young audience. In other word is there anyone that is not a has been that can replace the cougar?????????

Ari- Canada (Sent Wednesday, January 31, 2007 12:34 PM)

Well someone stupid is going to change something that is working. Must be a government offical. Paula is part of the show and should stay there. Still trying to figure out just what does Ryan do??

Kent Layton Utah (Sent Wednesday, January 31, 2007 12:35 PM)

I will never understand why Paula Abdul is a judge on American Idol in the first place. She is a better dancer than a musician. Her music is terrible, and so is Courtney Love's. Forget them both, and get a real musician on the panel, like Melissa Etheridge! If you want some one as sweet and quirky as Paula then call Tori Amos or Stevie Nicks.

Amanda, San Antonio, TX (Sent Wednesday, January 31, 2007 12:35 PM)

You have got to be kidding about replacing Paula. I loved it the week that one of the contestants had a super low cut dress & Paula grabbed her blouse & brought it together. Is it entertainment....yes, thats why it on the tube. If you dont' want to watch it, change channels....for me, I'll keep watching as long as you keep it as it is.

Linda Foust, Williamsport, Md. (Sent Wednesday, January 31, 2007 12:37 PM)

First of all, I love AI.But,it seems we're only seeing the horrible, wacked out, crazies. Please, please, show us a few of the really talented ones, too!I may just tune out until the competion starts!

Brenda R, Grants Pass,Or (Sent Wednesday, January 31, 2007 12:40 PM)

With the possible exception of Marie Osmond, the obvious choice for a replacement (that would have a unique understanding of American Idols having lived with two) is Lisa Marie Presley.

Randy Studdard (Sent Wednesday, January 31, 2007 12:41 PM)

I too will not watch American Idol if they get rid of Paula. If they have to replace her I would like to see Britney Spears and all. Yeah Baby!!!

Jim, Denver Co. (Sent Wednesday, January 31, 2007 12:41 PM)

Why not get Jewel to do it? She did a fine job when she was on the auditions.

Craig, Raleigh, NC (Sent Wednesday, January 31, 2007 12:43 PM)

If she needs to be replaced, they should consider Deborah Gibson. Smart, talented, and smokin.

Rich, NJ (Sent Wednesday, January 31, 2007 12:43 PM)

Fire Randy and Paula, hire Neil Young and Courtney Love and see how that works. My bet is that the show will still be about singing 'Idols' but maybe someone could show them how to pick up an instrument too. Also, people who wear ripped jeans MIGHT watch the show.

Bert (Sent Wednesday, January 31, 2007 12:46 PM)

How About Cyndi Lauper, she has talent and is a lot less wacky than some of the names being tossed around. Or maybe someone like Marie Osmond.She will bring the main stream audience in.

bob (Sent Wednesday, January 31, 2007 12:50 PM)

Courtney Love's musical talent is way too exceptional to WASTE her time on American Idol.

Brenda, Dallas, TX (Sent Wednesday, January 31, 2007 12:56 PM)

After the last show the three judges R,P,S, should be judged after their choices they will be sending to Hollywood,(HORRIBLE) The BEST singer of the show was the girl with the long hair she sang every note on key and occupelo which is not easy for everyone to be able to do. My suggestion is to give them what they are looking for, different style of hair, some make up change of songs,and re enter,I sing Barritone in a 60 piece Choir Capt.Dan Virginia Beach,Va.

Daniel A Haase (Sent Wednesday, January 31, 2007 1:01 PM)

I am amazed at all this talk about Paula's bizarre behavior. I can just imagine how I would behave after sitting there listening to all of that bad talent. PAULA IS PART OF THE TRIO. If you want to criticize behavior, Simon (who in my opinion is always right on) is the cruelist one. Can't he say what he has to say without completely destroying the person. Randy is not much better. He sits at laughs in their faces. Paula is OK. No replacement please.

Jean Rosano, Los Angeles, CA. (Sent Wednesday, January 31, 2007 1:01 PM)

IF a replacement occurs, and I highly doubt that it will, there's truly just one woman (it HAS to be a female, obviously, so Ozzie is out) who perfectly "fits the bill" in almost all respects... ...Deborah (Debbie) Gibson. For MANY, many reasons that I'm sure you all can perceive and understand.

Jim Hessen, Fairmont, West Virginia (Sent Wednesday, January 31, 2007 1:02 PM)

Britney Spears. It'd be perfect career rehabilitation for her and drive up the ratings even more than Paula's weird ramblings and platitudes.

Nate, Austin, TX (Sent Wednesday, January 31, 2007 1:03 PM)

I liked the Terry Bradshaw comment. I nominate William Shatner.

Barbara, IL (Sent Wednesday, January 31, 2007 1:09 PM)

I think that the show is fine just the way it is and if paula had family obligations or whatever it may be then i dont see thats its anyones business everyone has bad days and luckily she took a bad day off or maybe she could or would have misjudged someone i think that the way american idol started is how it should be it started with Simon Randy and Paula and it should stay with them and plus i dont like courtney love anyway she doesnt even have the name to be an american idol judge thats my opinion though i just know that i wouldnt bother watching it i she was a judge

Sasha Drake, Mcminnville, Tennessee (Sent Wednesday, January 31, 2007 1:10 PM)

I love AI but you guys take this WAY too seriously.

Jane (Sent Wednesday, January 31, 2007 1:11 PM)

She does have a cronic pain problem, maybe its some type of pain med. Give her a break

JuJu, Ohio (Sent Wednesday, January 31, 2007 1:11 PM)

I think Paula is AWESOME!!Courtney Love is vile..and she can't sing. But, if you must replace. Get some one with talent.

Elizabeth, Stephenville, PA (Sent Wednesday, January 31, 2007 1:14 PM)

I agree, lets get rid of Paula and her weird ways and replace her with OZZIE!!!!

Jennifer (Sent Wednesday, January 31, 2007 1:16 PM)

Courtney Love replace Paula? Remember kids, Paula Abdul at one point sang and had a fairly decent voice. The Hole frontwoman wouldn't have recorded as many albums as she did had it not been for all the people in the business she was chummy with (Dave Grohl, Billy Corgan, that one dude she married and drove to suicide...the guy in Nirvana)... She has no place telling people they can't sing.

Ruthie, Whittier, CA (Sent Wednesday, January 31, 2007 1:17 PM)

I vote to keep Paula but if she is replaced, how about Cher? She is smart, funny, entertaining and knows a little about music.

Karen, Huntersville, NC (Sent Wednesday, January 31, 2007 1:18 PM)

For goodness sake do not hire Cortney Love or Michael Jackson. I know that Cortney is supposedly clean and sober now, but I don't think she would stay that way with Simon and Randy picking on her, and if Michael Jackson was on I would definitely not watch the show. Hire someone who is in the music business that people actually would like, not someone whose career is in the toilet.

Susan Russell, Hillsborough, NC (Sent Wednesday, January 31, 2007 1:19 PM)

Jack Black!!!!!!!!!!!

RJ,Port Huron,MI (Sent Wednesday, January 31, 2007 1:20 PM)

Obviously the consensus is no to Courtney Love and most people would like to keep Paula. They you have the immature political statements and the people downing those who watch the show whom they say should get a life although their lives are entertained by commenting about the show. I think Paula is fine to keep on the show and agree to the summary of Courtney Love as cheap, trash, strung out. I can't stand to see her wasted looking eyes and incoherent voice who claims to be sober. Must have permanent brain damage from everything she's done.

Mary Bangs, Fort Worth, TX (Sent Wednesday, January 31, 2007 1:22 PM)



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