‘Idol’ producer slams Rosie over Frenchie rant

Rosie O'Donnell is once again on the receiving end of backlash over her comments on "The View." This time, "American Idol" has hit back at the outspoken moderator for expressing her opinion about the show and one contestant in particular.

Wednesday the always opinionated talk show host branded the talent competition racist and weightist for choosing to keep on Antonella Barba after it was revealed she had posed for racy photographs, which were leaked to the Internet. During Season Two, Rosie reminded the audience, a plus-sized Frenchie Davis got the boot from the show after it was revealed she posed, and was paid, for some topless pics on an adult Web site.

Now, "Idol's" executive producer, Nigel Lythgoe, has hit back over Rosie's views.

"Without wishing to add to the obvious self-promotion of Ms. O'Donnell, I feel as though I must refute her absurd and ridiculous claims that 'American Idol' is racist and/or weightist," he said in a statement. "Ms. O'Donnell has, once again, spoken without thought or knowledge. Viewers need only look at the show tonight to realize that ‘American Idol' constantly confirms to America that talent has nothing to do with weight or color."

O'Donnell has responded in turn, posting Lythgoe's comments on her Web site, Rosie.com, and blogging, "Well, what can you say really?"

"I call it as I see it," she continued. "Blah, blah, blah, blah."

As for Barba however, her future on the show could end some of the controversy thanks to a lackluster performance on Wednesday night's "Idol." Barba sang Corinne Bailey Rae's "Put Your Records On," which judge Simon Cowell suggested may seal her fate.

"You've gone as far as you can go," Cowell told her bluntly. "The reality is you are surrounded by some amazing girl singers. I don't think your voice is going to get better."

Judge Randy Jackson also said he was not thrilled by her rendition of the song.

"I feel you don't believe you," he said. "(It was an) OK performance."

Cowell did bring up Barba's recent controversy, complimenting her attitude amid the photo scandal.

"You've taken a lot of stick in the media, and you've handled yourself well," he said, before putting her performance down again. "I wish you could sing better," he added.

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