These are not my words but something I read the other day that I really like.
"I think people underestimate the pressure these "kids" are under. I know they signed up for it and should be aware of what they are getting into but obviously some of them don't.
They are worked to the bone- every day is scheduled and regimented with no thought of down time or relaxation. Just witness last year when each week saw them looking more and more bedraggled as if the life was just being sucked out of them. And this year with the increased security presence in their lives many of them are feeling the urge to just flee.
Megan said she had never held a microphone in her hand until Idol and I believe it. Some of them are just out of their depth and endurance and being able to look at the larger picture is just as important as anything else.
I for one cannot wait for the first "tell all" book about this show. I want to know how song selection really works, how restrictive and all encompassing the contract really is, and what the list of "forbidden topics" really consists of.
I know that most of them realize they are playing a game in which they hold no cards, and are in it for the ride. For a savvy person it can sometimes work out, but if you are inexperienced or just a bad fit personality wise it has to be very difficult to deal with all of the stress and pressure while knowing you are being manipulated merely for ratings." |