‘Idol’s’ cruelty

I read the interesting response of Fox Entertainment President Peter Ligouri to questions about the cruelty of the “American Idol” judges to contestants where he noted that “it’s part of the show” and “viewers know what the show is about” [“Questions for the Man at Fox,” by Martin Miller, Jan. 22].

Well, this viewer thought “American Idol” was about giving young talent their big chance to shine in front of a large audience. However, the show has evolved into calculated, deliberate exposure of pathetic publicity-seekers who should have been eliminated but instead are trotted out to be humiliated. And when viewers feel entertained by embarrassment and cruelty, it says volumes about the current television audience.

E.A. MACDONALD

Joliet, Ill.