Jennifer Hudson To Judge American Idol

This morning, E! News is reporting that Jennifer Hudson has signed on to judge season 13 of American Idol. She's set to be part of an all-alum panel. While Hudson wasn't my favorite contestant, it will be great to see what she can add to the show. Plus, she's definitely one of the more high profile artists to ever come from American Idol. After coming in seventh place, Hudson went on to win an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress in Dreamgirls and a role in NBC's Smash. That's not all, she's also had commercial success as a singer. Any advice and critique Hudson can give the aspiring singers will obviously be greatly appreciated. Other former Idols considered for this all-alum panel are Kelly Clarkson, Clay Aiken, and Adam Lambert. Can we replace Aiken and Lambert with Carrie Underwood? Either way, hopefully the idea of bringing back former contestants to judge can boost the ratings up to what they once were.

Source: E! Online

American Idol: Former Contestants as Judges?

According to a new report from Vulture, FOX is considering a new twist on the judges for American Idol next year. In a bid to boost dwindling ratings, serious consideration is being given to the possibility of having former contestants on the judges panel. Their sources say Jennifer Hudson and Kelly Clarkson have already been approached and Adam Lambert and Clay Aiken are also being considered.

I think this is a great idea. This show has gotten incredibly stale since the judges table has become a revolving door of overpaid celebrities who just want to boost or promote their careers. The meddling of the producers who seemed frantic this year to manipulate the results has become increasingly apparent and this could be the breath of fresh air we're looking for. If the show can get back to its roots and become genuine again, I might actually start watching again.

If I can't have Harry Connick Jr. (who seemed frustrated with the show's b.s.) I would love a panel of contestants. I might prefer to see Jordin Sparks instead of Hudson, who seems to be everywhere on my TV lately. If she's not warbling at me about Weight Watchers, she's taking over Smash. David Archuleta probably wouldn't be considered because he's just too nice. While his criticism wouldn't exactly be constructive, it would be hilarious to watch him attempt to be critical of someone with his smile and laugh. How would he have reacted to William Hung or any of the awful auditions? Think of the look on his face! Cutie pie.

Who would you like to see on the judges panel next season? Can American Idol be saved?

Jennifer Hudson Joins The Cast of 'Smash'

Photo Credit: TVLine

Smash is about the add another American Idol finalist to their talented cast. Jennifer Hudson will be joining the show for their second season for a multi-episode arc. She'll be playing a Broadway star named Veronica.

What do you think of this bit of casting? Are you looking forward to the second season of Smash?