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Simon says ‘Idol’ contestants lack personality

‘We are not getting a sense of who they are,’ acerbic judge explains

Image: Simon Cowell
Rene Macura / AP
"American Idol" judge Simon Cowell says that this season's contestants are missing one key component: personality.
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updated 8:46 p.m. ET April 17, 2008

LOS ANGELES - Simon Cowell has said “American Idol’s” Season 7 cast is devoid of one thing.

“Personality,” the outspoken Brit told Variety earlier this week.

If you’re wondering what Simon means, he said the cast lacks personality as exemplified by how they have presented themselves on the program thus far.

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“They are giving very safe answers to questions, making safe song selections,” Simon said. “We are not getting a sense of who they are. We have to try to pull it out of them more.”

Simon also said Michael Johns’ elimination, which was a shock to many – including the singer himself, shouldn’t have been so unexpected.

“You cannot deliver an uninspired performance at the top of the show,” Cowell said. “And you can’t be up there imitating another singer.”

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