• by Wayne Friedman , Staff Writer, August 2, 2010

It's now one of the oldest arguments in television: "American Idol": is it about the competitors -- or the judges? 

With the hiring of two brand-name musical artists as judges -- J. Lo and Steven Tyler -- the show looks to kick-start itself to a higher glamour level as the biggest TV show on network television. 

Back when "Idol" started, who really knew about Simon Cowell or Randy Jackson? And whatever little brand recognition went with Paula Abdul, even then she wasn't exactly a high-profile current artist. 

But TV isn't pushed just by big brands; it also loves to create new talent. Simon Cowell and his entertaining, acerbic criticism helped fuel the drama, raising his profile to become a major piece of "Idol"'s value.

There are plenty of good singers in the world, but a key piece of the show's appeal was the suspense in the judges' reactions -- hopefully strong reactions. Viewers could be on the edge of their seats wondering if Cowell was going to rip into someone. 

"Idol" producers, including returning producer Nigel Lythgoe, must be thinking that having name music performers as judges might push the show in a different direction -- with some key, frank insights revealed. And with the return of Randy Jackson and a three-judge panel, the show looks to give more time to the judges, hopefully to avoid those crazy program overruns.

Put it this way: If "Idol" was a scripted show, the singers would be the A-list talent, but the judges would play key supporting roles. That shouldn't change going forward. 

Viewers loved Abdul, and so did the competitors. But more than that, it was her contretemps with Cowell that also gave viewers a reason to watch. 

Outgoing judge Ellen DeGenerses said she had a tough time criticizing the talent. That's a big problem. Criticism is necessary in a show like "Idol." 

It's credible that "Idol" producers want to give the show a seemingly bigger brand appeal, one that offers up some musical expertise. But doesn't it need the drama as well?