Seacrest’s ‘Idol’ future may not be so secure

Courtney Hazlett The Scoop

It’s no secret that “American Idol” ratings have taken a turn for the worse this year, so it stands to reason that Fox would start wondering aloud about what can be done to reverse momentum.

An online market research survey was issued last week and, while the suits behind the show probe every aspect of the broadcast, there is a noticeable focus on “Idol” host Ryan Seacrest.

While all of the main players were included in the question, “How important are each of the following people to your overall enjoyment of ‘American Idol’?” the survey asks participants to weigh in on two extra statements: “I like the interaction between Ryan and the contestants” and  “I like the interaction between the judges and Ryan.”

The extra focus has some wondering whether a hosting change might be exactly what the show needs. “Ryan is so busy turning himself into a diverse brand, one that has longevity, it wouldn’t come as a surprise to think that he isn’t worried about his job security with ‘Idol,’” said a source close to Seacrest.

Reps for the “Idol” host didn’t comment as to whether Seacrest had been approached at all about a changing role on the show, but one “Idol” source did explain the questions, saying that they “fall under the leave-no-stone-unturned category more than anything else.”

Jen Aniston’s film delay a good thing
“He’s Just Not That Into You” was meant to be Jennifer Aniston’s first big summer release since 2006’s “The Break-Up,” but recently the release date was pushed from Aug. 1 to Oct. 24.

Slideshow   More than 'Friends' Jennifer Aniston's rise from sitcom sweetheart to Sundance star. more photos

At the time, many wondered if the film, which completed shooting in November 2007, wasn’t testing well with audiences, and that was the reason for the change in plan. “The film is great,” said Bradley Cooper, who stars in the film. “And to tell you the truth, it’s better for the film that it’s opening in October. It's a good thing.”

Cooper also said that a summer release would have been a strange fit for the film: “It’s not a massive, blockbuster-type movie. That was never, ever the intent. This is a smaller movie, more artsy than what you expect in the summer months. I think the fall is perfect for the release.”

Did you hear?
Designer Donna Ricco is on a roll. We hear that she visited the set of “How I Met Your Mother” and she dropped off dresses that might end up on Britney Spears when she films her upcoming appearance on the show. Ricco's designs have already been featured on “Days of Our Lives” and “The Real Housewives of New York City,” as well as on Vanna White for a week of “Wheel of Fortune” episodes.

Video   The Scoop asks, is Seacrest out? April 29: Courtney Hazlett reports on whether Ryan Seacrest may have worn out his welcome as the host of "American Idol." Morning Joe

Eighties icon Cyndi Lauper will release her new album, “Bring Ya to the Brink,” on May 27. She’ll then embark on a 25-city tour called True Colors, which aims to raise awareness about gay rights and features the B-52s and Joan Jett and the Blackhearts as well.

Celebrity sightings: Special Tribeca Film Festival edition
There were so many events pegged to the opening of the Tribeca Film Festival, it seemed fitting to devote an entire item to the number of celebs who made it to NYC.

Christy Turlington Burns kicked off the Mother’s Day festivities a few weeks early at the INSPI(RED) Mothers’ Brunch on April 20. Natasha Bedingfield and Selita Ebanks were both spotted wearing Mulberry at the April 21 Cinema Society screening of “Then She Found Me.”

First lady Laura Bush and daughter Barbara dined at Fig & Olive on April 22. That same day, Maria Sharapova celebrated her 21st birthday at Tenjune nightclub with Anna Wintour, Vera Wang and Dave Annable, among others.

“Singing Bee” host and ‘N SYNC alum Joey Fatone dined at Kobe Club New York on April 23.  “Sex and the City” hunk Jason Lewis joined thousands of New Yorkers for Snapple Antioxidant Water’s Thriller Night at the Tribeca Film Festival Drive-In on April 24. That same day, “Gossip Girl” star Chace Crawford attended the Mario Kart Wii Launch. Former “90210” star Jason Priestley was there, too.

Also on April 24, the Tribeca Film Festival and Yahoo! hosted a private party at the Bowery Hotel, with a live performance by The Wallflowers. The same night, Donna Karan, Jane Fonda and Russell Simmons attended the festival’s L’Oreal Paris celebration for “Pray the Devil Back to Hell” at Chinatown Brasserie.

On April 25, Mario Lopez, in a Coca-Cola Vintage T, imprinted his hands at Planet Hollywood. Cheryl Hines and William H. Macy were spotted at the Cadillac Lounge at Tenjune for the April 25 after party for "Bart Got a Room."

On April 26, Southern Hospitality BBQ hosted an NFL draft party attended by NY Giants center Shaun O'Hara and retired baseball player Darryl Strawberry.

MORE FROM THE SCOOP

The Scoop Section Front

No immediate plans to move ‘Oprah’ Rihanna says album helped recovery Stewart doesn’t want Jolie-level fame Heidi and Spencer’s book a disgrace Kate needs to use interview to redeem herself The Scoop Section Front   Add The Scoop headlines to your news reader: