Friday, November 19, 2010

The Remix Continues As “Idol” Moves Nights

I had planned to have some good scoop for you tonight from a media conference call with “Idol” executive producer Nigel Lythgoe. I figured we’d finally learn the premiere dates and maybe just how this season is going to work. But the call was cancelled at the very last minute.

However, FOX decided to release the big news anyway, just a little over an hour ago…

“American Idol” is moving to Wednesdays and Thursdays.

According to the FOX press release, “Idol” will premiere with a two-night event Wednesday, January 19th at 8 p.m. and Thursday, January 20th at 8 p.m.

And if I’m reading the schedule correctly, “Idol” will air two-hour episodes on Tuesdays from February 16th to April 6th, when the performance episodes will go to 90 minutes.

Are they trying to kill me?

And, unfortunately, it appears the results show will continue to be an hour-long. But let’s be honest. We have no idea what those will consist of anymore.

I’m hoping we’ll get lots of answers during that conference call with Nigel the first week of December.

As for the answer to the question you’re all asking, I can answer that right now. Why did FOX move the show? One word: “Glee.” FOX has got a great thing going with “Glee” on Tuesday nights and they didn’t want to mess with it. Plus, with “Glee” handling Tuesdays, FOX could try and tackle Thursdays, the biggest night on TV.

It’s a risk, but I think it could seriously pay off. But it will definitely take some getting used to…

What do you guys think of the move? And what about this family show ending up on a church night? Think it will have an effect?