Are These American Idol Guest Judges Really Necessary?

So far, we know that Victoria Beckham, Mary J. Blige and now Shania Twain have been tapped as guest judges on American Idol and my first question is – what do you think?  I have to say that I don’t really understand why they need the guest judges at all.

image © 2009 FOX BROADCASTING CR: Michael Becker / FOX

Here’s the thing – American Idol started as a three-judge show and now, since Paula Abdul quit, it’s back to being a three-judge show.  If they weren’t willing to fight to keep Paula, why do they need to find a stand-in?  Is it because they are worried that a panel comprised of Simon Cowell, Randy Jackson and Kara DioGuardi is going to be dull?  If they aren’t, they should be because I’m not particularly excited by it.

People love Paula Abdul, especially those who are auditioning.  There have been times when she has swayed the vote and given someone a chance when Simon was too harsh.  She was weird and quirky but usually polite about having the occasional laugh and I will miss her.

Victoria Beckham has some experience.  Yes, she was part of the huge group, the Spice Girls, but that certainly doesn’t make her qualified to judge others.  She was the worst singer in the group (sorry) and the worst dancer.  I know she’s been able to generate a lot of buzz for herself but I do believe that a good part of that is due to the fact that she married one of the world’s most popular (and attractive!) soccer/football players, David Beckham.

Mary J. Blige is an amazing artist.  She brings a soul and depth to her music that I really admire.  She did struggle, however, with live performances until very recently but I can’t tear Mary down.  She’s got some real experience in the business (not gimmicky like Victoria) and I think that she’s kind-hearted but honest enough to do a good job.  I still don’t see the necessity of bringing her on.

Now let’s get to Shania Twain.  I live in Canada and I love her but why in the world was she chosen?  I’m sure that there are far better choices out there.  She’s not all that relevant right now and I’m not even sure that half of the viewers will have even heard of her.  Yes, I know she has some big hits and yes I realize that she has a lot of fans but is she a superstar?  No.

I’m not saying you need to be a superstar to be a judge either but I’m just asking why guest judges are being added at all if we’re not talking about huge household names.  Would I tune in to see Kanye West deliver some tough love?  Absolutely.  Heck, I’d even listen to feedback from Lady GaGa – um, okay I take that back.  It would be interesting and it would bring in some ratings, for sure, but I can’t go there.

So, tell me what you think!  Do you see the importance of guest judges?  Don’t hate on me if you do, I’m just voicing my opinion and I’d love to hear yours.