The 15th and final season of Fox’s American Idol – the show that literally ushered in the Age of Interactive TV while proving that broadcast television could still be the mightiest medium in the land – was a disappointment on every level, except for its fabulous series finale (more on that below). Strange sets, forgettable, talent and, once again, three powerhouse judges whose star wattage eclipsed the amateur singers on the stage. (Quick, name the last five Idol winners.) But the biggest annoyance of all was that it felt so rushed. Fox ended it in April, rather than in May as it always had during the annual spring sweeps period. What was that about?
“American Idol” Bids Farewell (For Now): The Top 25 Shows of 2016, No. 16
