Idol Changes

Producer Nigel Lythgoe talks about the big changes for upcoming shows...

Will contestants be allowed to continue to play instruments on the show?

Yes. What we always do on this program is give them a choice… so it’s just allowing someone to show the complete range of their talent. Where it works, it works. Where it doesn’t, it’s outstandingly bad.

Usually the girls seem to have an edge, but this year, it seems reversed.

I agree with you. The boys do seem to have the edge. But the girls in rehearsal have been fantastic.

What do you think of Paula’s revived career as a singer?

I didn’t see her performance during the Super Bowl — I was actually

auditioning for So You Think You Can Dance. But I’m delighted for her.