Singing For Their Supper

‘SO who is winning the battle of the reality TV shows with BBC1’s Fame Academy going head-to-head with ITV1’s Pop Idol?

Simon Cowell’s ego is projected on the wall behind him

Simon Cowell, Nicky Chapman, Pete Waterman and Dr Fox attracted an average of 35.4% of the Saturday evening audience, peaking at 41.7% (or 6.3 million viewers).

On the other side, Cary Grant, Kevin Smith and Robin Gibb were watched by an average of 3.4 million viewers (26.6% of the viewing public), peaking at 4 million (34.3%).

Both broadcasters predictably said they were delighted with the figures, with the BBC claiming a narrow victory for the 15 minutes when the two shows were actually head-to-head.

The musicians may be better on Fame Academy, but Pop Idol is better television, especially during the auditions.

It may be car crash TV, but some of the wrecks that pass for singers have to be heard to be believed. Simon Cowell may be cast as Mr Nasty, but he is actually too kind to many of the young hopefuls who every week assault our eardrums.

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Posted: 12th, August 2003 | In: Celebrities Comment | TrackBack | Permalink