Idol was once a powerhouse of talent and entertainment, but like all things, it had its time, and that time has long ed with Ryan Seacrest being the only consistent bright spot. The show continues to struggle with its judging , offering a rotating cast of underwhelming critiques and forced enthusiasm.

Luke Bryan’s rarely moves beyond an irritating laugh, Carrie Underwood looks like she’d rather be anywhere else, and Lionel Richie has turned into a broken record, shouting “vote!” at every turn, especially when a Black contestant is on stage, making his racial favoritism both loud and obvious.

The contestant quality has slightly improved, though it's unclear how they're being screened. Still, the show feels more scripted than ever. I’m convinced the outcomes are predetermined, and the voting process is just smoke to give viewers the illusion of control.

In truth, I keep watching only because there’s little else on, and I enjoy hearing people sing. But Idol is now little more than a stale, drawn-out Disney ment. Time to let it go and let the legacy

rest.