American Idol, created by Englishman Simon Fuller, is a reality musical television series that tries to find new musical talent throughout the United States. It airs on the American television network Fox. It made its television debut on June 11, 2002 and since then has become one of the most popular shows on American television. American Idol is broadcast all over the world and has gained the most viewers in Asia, Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom, Israel, Latin America, and Ireland. American Idol judges and producers audition contestants nation-wide and picks the best contestants between the ages of 16 and 28 to compete on the show. Between ten and forty people from each of seven cities are sent to the next round of auditions in Hollywood. Contestants in Hollywood perform for the judges and eliminations are made daily. They sing both alone and in small groups picked by the judges. Contestants that are not eliminated then go on to perform in the televised finals, which feature each contestant performing a song they select from a weekly theme. Themes range anywhere from Motown to country to big band and has featured artists such as Queen, Michael Jackson, The Beatles, Elvis Presley, Elton John, Dolly Parton, Mariah Carey, and more. Contestants are afforded the opportunity to work with a musical celebrity during the first weeks to better their performance and singing techniques. Americans are able to vote for their favorite musical talent by calling or texting their vote, and have chosen the following winners since the shows beginning: Kelly Clarkson, Ruben Studdard, Fantasia Barrino, Carrie Underwood, Taylor Hicks, Jordin Sparks, David Cook, and Kris Allen. The winner of American Idol gets a $1 million record deal with a major label. American Idol’s panel of judges’ main job is to critique the performances of the contestants. They give their opinions on vocals, dress, choreography, and overall performance. The original panel was made up of Paula Abdul, a pop singer and choreographer, Randy Jackson, music manager and award-winning producer, and Simon Cowell, music manager and executive. Kara DioGuardi was added in 2009, and Ellen DeGeneres has recently been added to the panel since Paula Abdul left and Simon Cowell announced he would be leaving after the current season as well. Ryan Seacrest has been the host since the shows premier in 2002 and will continue hosting throughout the rest of American Idol’s contract in 2012. American Idol has received some harsh criticism for what some claim is total control of the winners careers. Elton John accused the show of being racist after the elimination of three African American contestants, while others point to vote splitting. Despite this criticism, the reality show has been one of the best shows to hit American television, spending five years at the number one spot. Even with the amazing viewing numbers the show has posted, there was a 19% drop in viewers during the sixth season and continued into the seventh and eighth season. American Idol has its own annual charity: “Idol Gives Back.” The show has many celebrity performances from names such as Dane Cook, Celine Dion, Miley Cyrus, Robin Williams, Keifer Sutherland, and more. In the charity event viewers can call in and make donations. Now you can Watch American Idol [1] over at TV For Free [2] and for a limited time watch other newly released TV and more. [1] http://www.streamtvshows.info/tv/American-Idol/30 [2] http://www.streamtvshows.info