I hear what you are saying. But let's face it. Popularity has always been a huge part of fame. I really think that was Pia's downfall with Idol - her personality. There was another really good one who didn't win and was really talented - I think her name was Doolittle? She was excellent, but she was so timid that I think it was a liability for her. As far as Idol jumping the shark, I don't think so. From what I read this year has been a very popular year and they got a lot of fans back with the new judges.
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