'The X Factor': Factor in the boy bands
"X" didn't just change the rule book but essentially burned it. For example, the show used to frown on anyone with a manager, but a preview reel offered an extended look at new contestant Carly Rose Sonenclar, a 13-year-old Mamaroneck resident who is (yes) managed and has extensive Broadway and TV credits to prove it. Plus, don't be too surprised if a few boy bands turn up. Meanwhile, NBC has added a third night of "The Voice" opposite "X" -- which could hurt either . . . or both.
But what about the U.S. edition? The preview reel shows that former teen idol Spears is now an almost matronly presence with hard eyes and loose jowls. (She's the "mean" one, Cowell promises.) Lovato's the sassy kid, pouting and spouting one-liners at Pops -- Cowell. Will these big stars bring in the viewers? There's ample evidence they won't (from JLo to Howard Stern, neither of whom turned around their respective franchises). And it's probably worth noting that these shows are -- or should be -- about finding the next superstar, not finding out what the superstar has to say about the next superstar.
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