Guest guest Posted January 22, 2007 Report Share Posted January 22, 2007 Did anyone see American Idol? or the News, about how mean the judges were to the two boys that were on the show? one of the two boys has Autism. that show makes negative comments with some of the people that try to sing, and the judges can be pretty mean. I think you would have to be a strong person to try out (singing) on that show. The judges did go to far when they made negative comments on their personal appearence. that was just " mean " . They are still interviewing the two boys on the news on WKTV (2) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 22, 2007 Report Share Posted January 22, 2007 Which boy had autism? I thought the one that had been in his church choir did for sure. Not the two that had made friends. Tiff http://www.xanga.com/neuroticfitchmom ( ) American idol Did anyone see American Idol? or the News, about how mean the judges were to the two boys that were on the show? one of the two boys has Autism. that show makes negative comments with some of the people that try to sing, and the judges can be pretty mean. I think you would have to be a strong person to try out (singing) on that show. The judges did go to far when they made negative comments on their personal appearence. that was just " mean " . They are still interviewing the two boys on the news on WKTV (2) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 22, 2007 Report Share Posted January 22, 2007 I don't watch the show but have seen the recent news coverage of the judges awful treatment of some of these kids. I immediately figured a few of them had to be on the spectrum, they just had no clue that their singing was " off " . So I don't think it's fair to say " well when you audition for the show you have to be aware of possibly being criticized. " I think they choose people with obvious neurological problems and killed their self esteem on national TV. I wanted to cry. The email before mine said it right that Simon is just a school yard bully! snr_mom <ghoward@...> wrote: You know, I have watched the show religiously from the first season. Now that I have kids of my own, and now knowing what I know about my own son, I was really sickened by the exchange (with the 2 boys - the one Simon called the " bushbaby " and the heavier one with the red and white shirt I assume you are referring to). I realized that several of those people probably were on the spectrum, including the one that was the computer programmer earlier in the show. I felt really bad for them and thought about writing a letter to Idol about it. Simon really is just a school yard bully. They push through the really awful singers just for the ratings of the audition episodes. But my mama would have boxed me between the ears for making fun of someone with a disability and Fox shoul dbe no different. Not like they will listen, because they are making money hand over fist on that show. In the Buffalo area, Time Warner has taken over our cable and is in a contract dispute with Fox over fees for carrying the stations. The deadline is approacing and they keep threatening to pull Fox off air. Whenever it is on the news or being discussed the background video is all Idol related, and they barely even discuss the lack of football coverage. In our town that really shows you the power of the show! But I digress. I am just not sure how much Fox would even listen, since it seems like the rest of the American underbelly really enjoy picking on people! > > Did anyone see American Idol? or the News, about how mean the judges > were to the two boys that were on the show? > one of the two boys has Autism. that show makes negative comments > with some of the people that try to sing, and the judges can be pretty > mean. I think you would have to be a strong person to try out > (singing) on that show. The judges did go to far when they made > negative comments on their personal appearence. that was just " mean " . > They are still interviewing the two boys on the news on WKTV (2) > --------------------------------- The fish are biting. Get more visitors on your site using Search Marketing. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 22, 2007 Report Share Posted January 22, 2007 I wanted to comment on this....I cried during that episode of American Idol. The comments the judges made of the 'bush baby'...my son has a craniofacial syndrome that effects his eyes in a similar way that this individual on American Idol had. The judges were very inmature in making fun of these 'singers'. I felt so much sadness for my son and other children like him, it is not their fault. I never thought I would see adults behaving so poorly, they should of known better. > > Did anyone see American Idol? or the News, about how mean the judges > were to the two boys that were on the show? > one of the two boys has Autism. that show makes negative comments > with some of the people that try to sing, and the judges can be pretty > mean. I think you would have to be a strong person to try out > (singing) on that show. The judges did go to far when they made > negative comments on their personal appearence. that was just " mean " . > They are still interviewing the two boys on the news on WKTV (2) > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 22, 2007 Report Share Posted January 22, 2007 The following email letter was sent to idol.web@... I am not sure if it was the right place to send my comments, but it was a start. I also plan on sending a similar letter to our local FOX affiliate.... I am not sure if this is the appropriate venue to address my comment, but you have no other opportunity I could find on your website. I am the mother of a three-year old autistic son. I am also a viewer that has been on the Idol bandwagon since season 1. Maybe it is my increasing sensitivity to the issues surrounding autism, but I was appalled by Simon's comments to and about several of the participants on last week's audition show. I participate in several parent's web forums regarding our autistic children, and all of us were able to identify several auditioners that likely fell into the autistic spectrum. Autism is a disability, just ike the more traditional disabilities. Simon's referring to the boy with the craniofacial syndrome as a " bush baby " was abhorrent. The other young man that auditioned after him was most certainly on the spectrum with either asperger's or some other form of autism. Children are cruel to each other. I expect better of adults. It is one thing to show those with poor singing ability to advance your ratings. But to highlight those that are disabled and continue with verbal abuse of physical characteristics. I doubt Simon has children, and should he ever be so lucky, I pray he is blessed with a physically and mentally " perfect " child, because he would never want to have someone talk to or about one of his own the way he talks to these people. You may blow this off as an overly concerned parent, but the tone of the program is increasingly promoting this " school yard bully " mentality. We try to teach our children not to treat others this way. You cater to a large viewer base, including children and teens. You are promoting behaviors that are contrary to what society expects of others, in what is intended to be a family entertainment program. Please act more responsibly. I, for one, will not be watching the program again. I cried during that episode, and I don't find that very entertaining. The web forum that I participate in was flooded with comments about the naïve and wretched behavior on the show. I am not the only person that feels this way. Sincerely, Gwen -Mann > > > > Did anyone see American Idol? or the News, about how mean the judges > > were to the two boys that were on the show? > > one of the two boys has Autism. that show makes negative > comments > > with some of the people that try to sing, and the judges can be > pretty > > mean. I think you would have to be a strong person to try out > > (singing) on that show. The judges did go to far when they made > > negative comments on their personal appearence. that was just " mean " . > > They are still interviewing the two boys on the news on WKTV (2) > > > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 22, 2007 Report Share Posted January 22, 2007 Very well said Gwen! Liz Houston snr_mom <ghoward@...> wrote: The following email letter was sent to idol.web@... I am not sure if it was the right place to send my comments, but it was a start. I also plan on sending a similar letter to our local FOX affiliate.... I am not sure if this is the appropriate venue to address my comment, but you have no other opportunity I could find on your website. I am the mother of a three-year old autistic son. I am also a viewer that has been on the Idol bandwagon since season 1. Maybe it is my increasing sensitivity to the issues surrounding autism, but I was appalled by Simon's comments to and about several of the participants on last week's audition show. I participate in several parent's web forums regarding our autistic children, and all of us were able to identify several auditioners that likely fell into the autistic spectrum. Autism is a disability, just ike the more traditional disabilities. Simon's referring to the boy with the craniofacial syndrome as a " bush baby " was abhorrent. The other young man that auditioned after him was most certainly on the spectrum with either asperger's or some other form of autism. Children are cruel to each other. I expect better of adults. It is one thing to show those with poor singing ability to advance your ratings. But to highlight those that are disabled and continue with verbal abuse of physical characteristics. I doubt Simon has children, and should he ever be so lucky, I pray he is blessed with a physically and mentally " perfect " child, because he would never want to have someone talk to or about one of his own the way he talks to these people. You may blow this off as an overly concerned parent, but the tone of the program is increasingly promoting this " school yard bully " mentality. We try to teach our children not to treat others this way. You cater to a large viewer base, including children and teens. You are promoting behaviors that are contrary to what society expects of others, in what is intended to be a family entertainment program. Please act more responsibly. I, for one, will not be watching the program again. I cried during that episode, and I don't find that very entertaining. The web forum that I participate in was flooded with comments about the naïve and wretched behavior on the show. I am not the only person that feels this way. Sincerely, Gwen -Mann > > > > Did anyone see American Idol? or the News, about how mean the judges > > were to the two boys that were on the show? > > one of the two boys has Autism. that show makes negative > comments > > with some of the people that try to sing, and the judges can be > pretty > > mean. I think you would have to be a strong person to try out > > (singing) on that show. The judges did go to far when they made > > negative comments on their personal appearence. that was just " mean " . > > They are still interviewing the two boys on the news on WKTV (2) > > > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 22, 2007 Report Share Posted January 22, 2007 It is crazy that you say that because as I was watching it I turned to my husband and said when I watch some of these people, I think that they must be on the specturm or something is deffintatley " there " . I thought it was just me. But the other thing that I said to him was that these boys are so strong and confidant!!! One other person when asked why he should be the next AI he said because I have a great personality and I said to my husband now those are a mother's words!!! And I pray that we can raise Ezra to have that much confidence in himself and not let other peoples poor attitude and confidence ruin their's!!! I felt proud of these boys that were auditioning and I pray that they continue to go on with their great attitudes!!!!!!!!! Liz S <lizs.1234@...> wrote: Very well said Gwen! Liz Houston snr_mom <ghoward@...> wrote: The following email letter was sent to idol.web@... I am not sure if it was the right place to send my comments, but it was a start. I also plan on sending a similar letter to our local FOX affiliate.... I am not sure if this is the appropriate venue to address my comment, but you have no other opportunity I could find on your website. I am the mother of a three-year old autistic son. I am also a viewer that has been on the Idol bandwagon since season 1. Maybe it is my increasing sensitivity to the issues surrounding autism, but I was appalled by Simon's comments to and about several of the participants on last week's audition show. I participate in several parent's web forums regarding our autistic children, and all of us were able to identify several auditioners that likely fell into the autistic spectrum. Autism is a disability, just ike the more traditional disabilities. Simon's referring to the boy with the craniofacial syndrome as a " bush baby " was abhorrent. The other young man that auditioned after him was most certainly on the spectrum with either asperger's or some other form of autism. Children are cruel to each other. I expect better of adults. It is one thing to show those with poor singing ability to advance your ratings. But to highlight those that are disabled and continue with verbal abuse of physical characteristics. I doubt Simon has children, and should he ever be so lucky, I pray he is blessed with a physically and mentally " perfect " child, because he would never want to have someone talk to or about one of his own the way he talks to these people. You may blow this off as an overly concerned parent, but the tone of the program is increasingly promoting this " school yard bully " mentality. We try to teach our children not to treat others this way. You cater to a large viewer base, including children and teens. You are promoting behaviors that are contrary to what society expects of others, in what is intended to be a family entertainment program. Please act more responsibly. I, for one, will not be watching the program again. I cried during that episode, and I don't find that very entertaining. The web forum that I participate in was flooded with comments about the naïve and wretched behavior on the show. I am not the only person that feels this way. Sincerely, Gwen -Mann > > > > Did anyone see American Idol? or the News, about how mean the judges > > were to the two boys that were on the show? > > one of the two boys has Autism. that show makes negative > comments > > with some of the people that try to sing, and the judges can be > pretty > > mean. I think you would have to be a strong person to try out > > (singing) on that show. The judges did go to far when they made > > negative comments on their personal appearence. that was just " mean " . > > They are still interviewing the two boys on the news on WKTV (2) > > > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 22, 2007 Report Share Posted January 22, 2007 It's times like this that I think to myself... " and my kids are the ones that are considered rude and lacking social skills? " I don't THINK so. Jackie On Jan 22, 2007, at 2:56 PM, Mefford wrote: > It is crazy that you say that because as I was watching it I turned > to my husband and said when I watch some of these people, I think > that they must be on the specturm or something is deffintatley > " there " . I thought it was just me. But the other thing that I said > to him was that these boys are so strong and confidant!!! One other > person when asked why he should be the next AI he said because I > have a great personality and I said to my husband now those are a > mother's words!!! And I pray that we can raise Ezra to have that > much confidence in himself and not let other peoples poor attitude > and confidence ruin their's!!! I felt proud of these boys that were > auditioning and I pray that they continue to go on with their great > attitudes!!!!!!!!! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 22, 2007 Report Share Posted January 22, 2007 You're absolutly right! Liz S <lizs.1234@...> wrote: Very well said Gwen! Liz Houston snr_mom <ghoward@...> wrote: The following email letter was sent to idol.web@... I am not sure if it was the right place to send my comments, but it was a start. I also plan on sending a similar letter to our local FOX affiliate.... I am not sure if this is the appropriate venue to address my comment, but you have no other opportunity I could find on your website. I am the mother of a three-year old autistic son. I am also a viewer that has been on the Idol bandwagon since season 1. Maybe it is my increasing sensitivity to the issues surrounding autism, but I was appalled by Simon's comments to and about several of the participants on last week's audition show. I participate in several parent's web forums regarding our autistic children, and all of us were able to identify several auditioners that likely fell into the autistic spectrum. Autism is a disability, just ike the more traditional disabilities. Simon's referring to the boy with the craniofacial syndrome as a " bush baby " was abhorrent. The other young man that auditioned after him was most certainly on the spectrum with either asperger's or some other form of autism. Children are cruel to each other. I expect better of adults. It is one thing to show those with poor singing ability to advance your ratings. But to highlight those that are disabled and continue with verbal abuse of physical characteristics. I doubt Simon has children, and should he ever be so lucky, I pray he is blessed with a physically and mentally " perfect " child, because he would never want to have someone talk to or about one of his own the way he talks to these people. You may blow this off as an overly concerned parent, but the tone of the program is increasingly promoting this " school yard bully " mentality. We try to teach our children not to treat others this way. You cater to a large viewer base, including children and teens. You are promoting behaviors that are contrary to what society expects of others, in what is intended to be a family entertainment program. Please act more responsibly. I, for one, will not be watching the program again. I cried during that episode, and I don't find that very entertaining. The web forum that I participate in was flooded with comments about the naïve and wretched behavior on the show. I am not the only person that feels this way. Sincerely, Gwen -Mann > > > > Did anyone see American Idol? or the News, about how mean the judges > > were to the two boys that were on the show? > > one of the two boys has Autism. that show makes negative > comments > > with some of the people that try to sing, and the judges can be > pretty > > mean. I think you would have to be a strong person to try out > > (singing) on that show. The judges did go to far when they made > > negative comments on their personal appearence. that was just " mean " . > > They are still interviewing the two boys on the news on WKTV (2) > > > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 22, 2007 Report Share Posted January 22, 2007 Yes Simon can be very cruel. I seen both boys on " Good Morning America " show today. They became friends waiting to go on & audition. I felt sorry for them. The judges could have let them down gently. Betty beachbodytan2002 <beachbodytan2002@...> wrote: Did anyone see American Idol? or the News, about how mean the judges were to the two boys that were on the show? one of the two boys has Autism. that show makes negative comments with some of the people that try to sing, and the judges can be pretty mean. I think you would have to be a strong person to try out (singing) on that show. The judges did go to far when they made negative comments on their personal appearence. that was just " mean " . They are still interviewing the two boys on the news on WKTV (2) --------------------------------- Never miss an email again! Toolbar alerts you the instant new Mail arrives. Check it out. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 22, 2007 Report Share Posted January 22, 2007 I was completely disgusted! And glad that others found it that way as well! -- ( ) Re: American idol I wanted to comment on this....I cried during that episode of American Idol. The comments the judges made of the 'bush baby'...my son has a craniofacial syndrome that effects his eyes in a similar way that this individual on American Idol had. The judges were very inmature in making fun of these 'singers'. I felt so much sadness for my son and other children like him, it is not their fault. I never thought I would see adults behaving so poorly, they should of known better. > > Did anyone see American Idol? or the News, about how mean the judges > were to the two boys that were on the show? > one of the two boys has Autism. that show makes negative comments > with some of the people that try to sing, and the judges can be pretty > mean. I think you would have to be a strong person to try out > (singing) on that show. The judges did go to far when they made > negative comments on their personal appearence. that was just " mean " . > They are still interviewing the two boys on the news on WKTV (2) > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 22, 2007 Report Share Posted January 22, 2007 Here is a link to the story .. And the boy http://www.ecanadanow com/entertainment/2007/01/22/simon-cowell-mocks-contestant-with-autism/ -- Re: ( ) American idol Which boy had autism? I thought the one that had been in his church choir did for sure. Not the two that had made friends. Tiff http://www.xanga.com/neuroticfitchmom ( ) American idol Did anyone see American Idol? or the News, about how mean the judges were to the two boys that were on the show? one of the two boys has Autism. that show makes negative comments with some of the people that try to sing, and the judges can be pretty mean. I think you would have to be a strong person to try out (singing) on that show. The judges did go to far when they made negative comments on their personal appearence. that was just " mean " . They are still interviewing the two boys on the news on WKTV (2) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 22, 2007 Report Share Posted January 22, 2007 I thought the Judges were disgusting. Betty mommysbudbud <mommysbudbud@...> wrote: I wanted to comment on this....I cried during that episode of American Idol. The comments the judges made of the 'bush baby'...my son has a craniofacial syndrome that effects his eyes in a similar way that this individual on American Idol had. The judges were very inmature in making fun of these 'singers'. I felt so much sadness for my son and other children like him, it is not their fault. I never thought I would see adults behaving so poorly, they should of known better. > > Did anyone see American Idol? or the News, about how mean the judges > were to the two boys that were on the show? > one of the two boys has Autism. that show makes negative comments > with some of the people that try to sing, and the judges can be pretty > mean. I think you would have to be a strong person to try out > (singing) on that show. The judges did go to far when they made > negative comments on their personal appearence. that was just " mean " . > They are still interviewing the two boys on the news on WKTV (2) > --------------------------------- 8:00? 8:25? 8:40? Find a flick in no time with the Search movie showtime shortcut. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 22, 2007 Report Share Posted January 22, 2007 Do we know though if the hosts knew that the boy had autism or asperger's or any disability? If the boy tried out and they didn't know he had autism, I can't see being upset with the American Idol hosts for not knowing enough about ASD to take it easy on him because he was showing what they likely saw as social quirks. How would they know that from anyone else? (I personally wouldn't let my child try out on that show, if you blink wrong they're all over you but it's their show.) However, I do think that making fun of someone's physical appearance is wrong...teasing them for funny clothes or weird hair is one thing, and I think the guests open themselves up to that by auditioning, but actual physical appearance is a really bad area to tease in. That said, I hate the show overall -- they are mean to anyone/everyone that gives them even the slightest in. Why it has such a huge following is beyond me. snr_mom wrote: > > The following email letter was sent to idol.web@... > <mailto:idol.web%40fox.com> > > I am not sure if it was the right place to send my comments, but it > was a start. I also plan on sending a similar letter to our local > FOX affiliate.... > > I am not sure if this is the appropriate venue to address my > comment, but you have no other opportunity I could find on your > website. > > I am the mother of a three-year old autistic son. I am also a > viewer that has been on the Idol bandwagon since season 1. Maybe it > is my increasing sensitivity to the issues surrounding autism, but I > was appalled by Simon's comments to and about several of the > participants on last week's audition show. I participate in several > parent's web forums regarding our autistic children, and all of us > were able to identify several auditioners that likely fell into the > autistic spectrum. Autism is a disability, just ike the more > traditional disabilities. Simon's referring to the boy with the > craniofacial syndrome as a " bush baby " was abhorrent. The other > young man that auditioned after him was most certainly on the > spectrum with either asperger's or some other form of autism. > > Children are cruel to each other. I expect better of adults. It is > one thing to show those with poor singing ability to advance your > ratings. But to highlight those that are disabled and continue with > verbal abuse of physical characteristics. I doubt Simon has > children, and should he ever be so lucky, I pray he is blessed with > a physically and mentally " perfect " child, because he would never > want to have someone talk to or about one of his own the way he > talks to these people. > > You may blow this off as an overly concerned parent, but the tone of > the program is increasingly promoting this " school yard bully " > mentality. We try to teach our children not to treat others this > way. You cater to a large viewer base, including children and > teens. You are promoting behaviors that are contrary to what > society expects of others, in what is intended to be a family > entertainment program. Please act more responsibly. I, for one, > will not be watching the program again. I cried during that > episode, and I don't find that very entertaining. The web forum > that I participate in was flooded with comments about the naïve and > wretched behavior on the show. I am not the only person that feels > this way. > > Sincerely, > > Gwen -Mann > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 22, 2007 Report Share Posted January 22, 2007 I would like to add an opposing perspective to the American Idol comments. The judges were much kinder to the second boy (Autism or mental disability) than the first (the " bush baby " comments). It appeared to me that they immediately noticed that he had some kind of disability. With that out of the way I guess that I disagree with most of your comments. Not because I think it is okay to be mean to people but many of you commmented that you watched American Idol for many seasons and I know as a long time watcher also that they have had a lot of people in the past that they have poked fun at. One of the original contestants that was really awful (Henry or Harry?? Wong) even had his 15 minutes or so of fame because of that reason. So much so that people now go to the auditions on purpose to be as weird as possible just to get on tv. I am really disturbed by the number of people who go to these auditions that really appear to not understand that they are terrible. And I wonder why they are so unaware of reality. I think that one of my responsibilities as a parent (especially of an AS child) is to teach him how to work on his strengths not to merely feed him some exagerations to make him feel good. Everyone has strengths and weeknesses and disalusional views of either is no good for anyone. We wouldn't send a wheelchair disabled child to a figure scating competion. So why would any parent of a disabled child not sit down and realistically explain what will happen if they want to go to a American Idol competition (which by the way is much more than just a singing competition). If you are going to audition for this kind of contest why is it so wrong to say to a really bad contestant that they are really awful. If you are going to audition to a contest that encourages good looks and a sense of dress why is it so wrong to say that someone is unattractive or looks ridiculous. We have gotten so politically correct now that people can put themselves on display and we are all suppose to feed their ego. Please keep in mind that these people signed on for this. They waited in line for hours if not days. I am quite sure that they all had to sign waivers. And I am sure that minors are required to have their guardians sign a waiver. I guess I just don't see them as victims. I felt sorry for the disabled boy but not because of the judges, they were actually pretty kind to him but because I wondered why no one stopped him from putting himself into that position. Maybe they thought he could handle it and it would be good for him. Maybe it was? Vickie Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 22, 2007 Report Share Posted January 22, 2007 -I don't want to sound like I think what happened on American Idol was okay- but they are an easy target when emotions run high. My question is-Who in these boys' lives encouraged them to audition? Anyone who has watched the show knows Simon's lack of sensitivity, and that the potential was there for some cruel things to be said. As a mother of child on the spectrum, yes, it caused a heart pang, but the reality is- people of all ages can be hurtful. My girlfriend tried to break into modeling and had people tell her she was too short, her forehead was too big, her eyes were the wrong shape, etc.....all attributes she was born with, and couldn't help. The entertainment business is rough, and you need a really strong backbone to put yourself out there for people to judge you. Both boys seemed to handle themselves quite well in spite of the criticism- so bravo to them. Tracey -- In , Essenfeld <lessen@...> wrote: > > You're absolutly right! > > Liz S <lizs.1234@...> wrote: Very well said Gwen! > Liz > Houston > > snr_mom <ghoward@...> wrote: > The following email letter was sent to idol.web@... > > I am not sure if it was the right place to send my comments, but it > was a start. I also plan on sending a similar letter to our local > FOX affiliate.... > > I am not sure if this is the appropriate venue to address my > comment, but you have no other opportunity I could find on your > website. > > I am the mother of a three-year old autistic son. I am also a > viewer that has been on the Idol bandwagon since season 1. Maybe it > is my increasing sensitivity to the issues surrounding autism, but I > was appalled by Simon's comments to and about several of the > participants on last week's audition show. I participate in several > parent's web forums regarding our autistic children, and all of us > were able to identify several auditioners that likely fell into the > autistic spectrum. Autism is a disability, just ike the more > traditional disabilities. Simon's referring to the boy with the > craniofacial syndrome as a " bush baby " was abhorrent. The other > young man that auditioned after him was most certainly on the > spectrum with either asperger's or some other form of autism. > > Children are cruel to each other. I expect better of adults. It is > one thing to show those with poor singing ability to advance your > ratings. But to highlight those that are disabled and continue with > verbal abuse of physical characteristics. I doubt Simon has > children, and should he ever be so lucky, I pray he is blessed with > a physically and mentally " perfect " child, because he would never > want to have someone talk to or about one of his own the way he > talks to these people. > > You may blow this off as an overly concerned parent, but the tone of > the program is increasingly promoting this " school yard bully " > mentality. We try to teach our children not to treat others this > way. You cater to a large viewer base, including children and > teens. You are promoting behaviors that are contrary to what > society expects of others, in what is intended to be a family > entertainment program. Please act more responsibly. I, for one, > will not be watching the program again. I cried during that > episode, and I don't find that very entertaining. The web forum > that I participate in was flooded with comments about the naïve and > wretched behavior on the show. I am not the only person that feels > this way. > > Sincerely, > > Gwen -Mann > > > > > > > > Did anyone see American Idol? or the News, about how mean the > judges > > > were to the two boys that were on the show? > > > one of the two boys has Autism. that show makes negative > > comments > > > with some of the people that try to sing, and the judges can be > > pretty > > > mean. I think you would have to be a strong person to try out > > > (singing) on that show. The judges did go to far when they made > > > negative comments on their personal appearence. that was > just " mean " . > > > They are still interviewing the two boys on the news on WKTV (2) > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 22, 2007 Report Share Posted January 22, 2007 That's what I meant then -- if they didn't know about his disability, it's not their fault BUT if they were picking on obvious physical attributes like you mention, shame on them. But, its got huge ratings!! Apparently people at large enjoy watching others be demeaned. (Or they like seeing the bad singers enough that they're willing to put up with nasty hosts???) It's all beyond me. Thanks for explaining -- I didn't watch it then nor do I ever so I didn't know if they were picking on physical things or just his social cues or behavior. wrote: > > They know now. But the key is not to pick on someone's physical > disability. > He had bulging eyes... Which had nothing to do with his singing.. And the > other boy was obese.. And those jabs at their physical appearances were > crass and uncalled for. > I would hope they wouldn't have said something nasty about someone in a > wheelchair either... And I don't see any difference in that. > > -- Re: ( ) Re: American idol > > Do we know though if the hosts knew that the boy had autism or > asperger's or any disability? If the boy tried out and they didn't know > he had autism, I can't see being upset with the American Idol hosts for > not knowing enough about ASD to take it easy on him because he was > showing what they likely saw as social quirks. How would they know that > from anyone else? (I personally wouldn't let my child try out on that > show, if you blink wrong they're all over you but it's their show.) > However, I do think that making fun of someone's physical appearance is > wrong...teasing them for funny clothes or weird hair is one thing, and I > think the guests open themselves up to that by auditioning, but actual > physical appearance is a really bad area to tease in. > > That said, I hate the show overall -- they are mean to anyone/everyone > that gives them even the slightest in. Why it has such a huge following > is beyond me. > > snr_mom wrote: > > > > The following email letter was sent to idol.web@... > <mailto:idol.web%40fox.com> > > <mailto:idol.web%40fox.com> > > > > I am not sure if it was the right place to send my comments, but it > > was a start. I also plan on sending a similar letter to our local > > FOX affiliate.... > > > > I am not sure if this is the appropriate venue to address my > > comment, but you have no other opportunity I could find on your > > website. > > > > I am the mother of a three-year old autistic son. I am also a > > viewer that has been on the Idol bandwagon since season 1. Maybe it > > is my increasing sensitivity to the issues surrounding autism, but I > > was appalled by Simon's comments to and about several of the > > participants on last week's audition show. I participate in several > > parent's web forums regarding our autistic children, and all of us > > were able to identify several auditioners that likely fell into the > > autistic spectrum. Autism is a disability, just ike the more > > traditional disabilities. Simon's referring to the boy with the > > craniofacial syndrome as a " bush baby " was abhorrent. The other > > young man that auditioned after him was most certainly on the > > spectrum with either asperger's or some other form of autism. > > > > Children are cruel to each other. I expect better of adults. It is > > one thing to show those with poor singing ability to advance your > > ratings. But to highlight those that are disabled and continue with > > verbal abuse of physical characteristics. I doubt Simon has > > children, and should he ever be so lucky, I pray he is blessed with > > a physically and mentally " perfect " child, because he would never > > want to have someone talk to or about one of his own the way he > > talks to these people. > > > > You may blow this off as an overly concerned parent, but the tone of > > the program is increasingly promoting this " school yard bully " > > mentality. We try to teach our children not to treat others this > > way. You cater to a large viewer base, including children and > > teens. You are promoting behaviors that are contrary to what > > society expects of others, in what is intended to be a family > > entertainment program. Please act more responsibly. I, for one, > > will not be watching the program again. I cried during that > > episode, and I don't find that very entertaining. The web forum > > that I participate in was flooded with comments about the naïve and > > wretched behavior on the show. I am not the only person that feels > > this way. > > > > Sincerely, > > > > Gwen -Mann > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 22, 2007 Report Share Posted January 22, 2007 I didn't think that at all! No worries! I hope I didn't come off badly either! Have a great night, Donna wrote: > > OH and I hope that didn't sound like I was attacking you Donna.. I > honestly > was just attacking the hosts that said the same thing.. They didn't know. > I know you were just asking the question.. Sorry if it sounded like I was > responding in a nasty way to you. Just ticked at the poor excuses the > hosts were giving the media. > > -- Re: ( ) Re: American idol > > Do we know though if the hosts knew that the boy had autism or > asperger's or any disability? If the boy tried out and they didn't know > he had autism, I can't see being upset with the American Idol hosts for > not knowing enough about ASD to take it easy on him because he was > showing what they likely saw as social quirks. How would they know that > from anyone else? (I personally wouldn't let my child try out on that > show, if you blink wrong they're all over you but it's their show.) > However, I do think that making fun of someone's physical appearance is > wrong...teasing them for funny clothes or weird hair is one thing, and I > think the guests open themselves up to that by auditioning, but actual > physical appearance is a really bad area to tease in. > > That said, I hate the show overall -- they are mean to anyone/everyone > that gives them even the slightest in. Why it has such a huge following > is beyond me. > > snr_mom wrote: > > > > The following email letter was sent to idol.web@... > <mailto:idol.web%40fox.com> > > <mailto:idol.web%40fox.com> > > > > I am not sure if it was the right place to send my comments, but it > > was a start. I also plan on sending a similar letter to our local > > FOX affiliate.... > > > > I am not sure if this is the appropriate venue to address my > > comment, but you have no other opportunity I could find on your > > website. > > > > I am the mother of a three-year old autistic son. I am also a > > viewer that has been on the Idol bandwagon since season 1. Maybe it > > is my increasing sensitivity to the issues surrounding autism, but I > > was appalled by Simon's comments to and about several of the > > participants on last week's audition show. I participate in several > > parent's web forums regarding our autistic children, and all of us > > were able to identify several auditioners that likely fell into the > > autistic spectrum. Autism is a disability, just ike the more > > traditional disabilities. Simon's referring to the boy with the > > craniofacial syndrome as a " bush baby " was abhorrent. The other > > young man that auditioned after him was most certainly on the > > spectrum with either asperger's or some other form of autism. > > > > Children are cruel to each other. I expect better of adults. It is > > one thing to show those with poor singing ability to advance your > > ratings. But to highlight those that are disabled and continue with > > verbal abuse of physical characteristics. I doubt Simon has > > children, and should he ever be so lucky, I pray he is blessed with > > a physically and mentally " perfect " child, because he would never > > want to have someone talk to or about one of his own the way he > > talks to these people. > > > > You may blow this off as an overly concerned parent, but the tone of > > the program is increasingly promoting this " school yard bully " > > mentality. We try to teach our children not to treat others this > > way. You cater to a large viewer base, including children and > > teens. You are promoting behaviors that are contrary to what > > society expects of others, in what is intended to be a family > > entertainment program. Please act more responsibly. I, for one, > > will not be watching the program again. I cried during that > > episode, and I don't find that very entertaining. The web forum > > that I participate in was flooded with comments about the naïve and > > wretched behavior on the show. I am not the only person that feels > > this way. > > > > Sincerely, > > > > Gwen -Mann > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 22, 2007 Report Share Posted January 22, 2007 They know now. But the key is not to pick on someone's physical disability. He had bulging eyes... Which had nothing to do with his singing.. And the other boy was obese.. And those jabs at their physical appearances were crass and uncalled for. I would hope they wouldn't have said something nasty about someone in a wheelchair either... And I don't see any difference in that. -- Re: ( ) Re: American idol Do we know though if the hosts knew that the boy had autism or asperger's or any disability? If the boy tried out and they didn't know he had autism, I can't see being upset with the American Idol hosts for not knowing enough about ASD to take it easy on him because he was showing what they likely saw as social quirks. How would they know that from anyone else? (I personally wouldn't let my child try out on that show, if you blink wrong they're all over you but it's their show.) However, I do think that making fun of someone's physical appearance is wrong...teasing them for funny clothes or weird hair is one thing, and I think the guests open themselves up to that by auditioning, but actual physical appearance is a really bad area to tease in. That said, I hate the show overall -- they are mean to anyone/everyone that gives them even the slightest in. Why it has such a huge following is beyond me. snr_mom wrote: > > The following email letter was sent to idol.web@... > <mailto:idol.web%40fox.com> > > I am not sure if it was the right place to send my comments, but it > was a start. I also plan on sending a similar letter to our local > FOX affiliate.... > > I am not sure if this is the appropriate venue to address my > comment, but you have no other opportunity I could find on your > website. > > I am the mother of a three-year old autistic son. I am also a > viewer that has been on the Idol bandwagon since season 1. Maybe it > is my increasing sensitivity to the issues surrounding autism, but I > was appalled by Simon's comments to and about several of the > participants on last week's audition show. I participate in several > parent's web forums regarding our autistic children, and all of us > were able to identify several auditioners that likely fell into the > autistic spectrum. Autism is a disability, just ike the more > traditional disabilities. Simon's referring to the boy with the > craniofacial syndrome as a " bush baby " was abhorrent. The other > young man that auditioned after him was most certainly on the > spectrum with either asperger's or some other form of autism. > > Children are cruel to each other. I expect better of adults. It is > one thing to show those with poor singing ability to advance your > ratings. But to highlight those that are disabled and continue with > verbal abuse of physical characteristics. I doubt Simon has > children, and should he ever be so lucky, I pray he is blessed with > a physically and mentally " perfect " child, because he would never > want to have someone talk to or about one of his own the way he > talks to these people. > > You may blow this off as an overly concerned parent, but the tone of > the program is increasingly promoting this " school yard bully " > mentality. We try to teach our children not to treat others this > way. You cater to a large viewer base, including children and > teens. You are promoting behaviors that are contrary to what > society expects of others, in what is intended to be a family > entertainment program. Please act more responsibly. I, for one, > will not be watching the program again. I cried during that > episode, and I don't find that very entertaining. The web forum > that I participate in was flooded with comments about the naïve and > wretched behavior on the show. I am not the only person that feels > this way. > > Sincerely, > > Gwen -Mann > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 22, 2007 Report Share Posted January 22, 2007 OH and I hope that didn't sound like I was attacking you Donna.. I honestly was just attacking the hosts that said the same thing.. They didn't know. I know you were just asking the question.. Sorry if it sounded like I was responding in a nasty way to you. Just ticked at the poor excuses the hosts were giving the media. -- Re: ( ) Re: American idol Do we know though if the hosts knew that the boy had autism or asperger's or any disability? If the boy tried out and they didn't know he had autism, I can't see being upset with the American Idol hosts for not knowing enough about ASD to take it easy on him because he was showing what they likely saw as social quirks. How would they know that from anyone else? (I personally wouldn't let my child try out on that show, if you blink wrong they're all over you but it's their show.) However, I do think that making fun of someone's physical appearance is wrong...teasing them for funny clothes or weird hair is one thing, and I think the guests open themselves up to that by auditioning, but actual physical appearance is a really bad area to tease in. That said, I hate the show overall -- they are mean to anyone/everyone that gives them even the slightest in. Why it has such a huge following is beyond me. snr_mom wrote: > > The following email letter was sent to idol.web@... > <mailto:idol.web%40fox.com> > > I am not sure if it was the right place to send my comments, but it > was a start. I also plan on sending a similar letter to our local > FOX affiliate.... > > I am not sure if this is the appropriate venue to address my > comment, but you have no other opportunity I could find on your > website. > > I am the mother of a three-year old autistic son. I am also a > viewer that has been on the Idol bandwagon since season 1. Maybe it > is my increasing sensitivity to the issues surrounding autism, but I > was appalled by Simon's comments to and about several of the > participants on last week's audition show. I participate in several > parent's web forums regarding our autistic children, and all of us > were able to identify several auditioners that likely fell into the > autistic spectrum. Autism is a disability, just ike the more > traditional disabilities. Simon's referring to the boy with the > craniofacial syndrome as a " bush baby " was abhorrent. The other > young man that auditioned after him was most certainly on the > spectrum with either asperger's or some other form of autism. > > Children are cruel to each other. I expect better of adults. It is > one thing to show those with poor singing ability to advance your > ratings. But to highlight those that are disabled and continue with > verbal abuse of physical characteristics. I doubt Simon has > children, and should he ever be so lucky, I pray he is blessed with > a physically and mentally " perfect " child, because he would never > want to have someone talk to or about one of his own the way he > talks to these people. > > You may blow this off as an overly concerned parent, but the tone of > the program is increasingly promoting this " school yard bully " > mentality. We try to teach our children not to treat others this > way. You cater to a large viewer base, including children and > teens. You are promoting behaviors that are contrary to what > society expects of others, in what is intended to be a family > entertainment program. Please act more responsibly. I, for one, > will not be watching the program again. I cried during that > episode, and I don't find that very entertaining. The web forum > that I participate in was flooded with comments about the naïve and > wretched behavior on the show. I am not the only person that feels > this way. > > Sincerely, > > Gwen -Mann > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 22, 2007 Report Share Posted January 22, 2007 They were making fun of a birth defect....rather getting a good laugh out of it. BUSH BABY: Briggs (23) is skinny and has large, bulging eyes. He says that he's been compared to Timberlake. He sings " Tearing Up My Heart " by N'Sync and Randy and a lose it. a actually turns her chair away from him to laugh. Simon says: You look a little odd, your dancing is terrible, the singing was horrendous, and you look like one of those creatures that lives in the jungle with those massive eyes. What are they called? Bush Baby. " It's a little mean to tell the guy he looks like a monkey. But at least a thinks he is adorable. was born with Aarskog Syndrome which causes facial abnormalities and shortness. His grandmother says is used to stares, but doesn't let it get him down. I have never heard of Aarskog Syndrome, it is very rare. My son was born with a rare syndrome. If you ask any of our 'friends' who either have a rare syndrome like this or have children with one of these rare syndromes how they felt about Simons comments...I guarantee everyone would feel insulted. My son, at 6 months old, went into surgery and has a scar from ear to ear. His skin was cut and pulled off of his skull...his skull was taken apart from mid eye socket to the back of his head in hopes of giving him a round head...in addition his soft spots were mostly fused up and his brain had little room left to grow. His eye sockets were brought back so that his eyes wouldn't be so prominent, like the guy on American Idol. In a few years my son will need another surgery to work on his eye sockets again because his eyes are becoming prominent yet again. For all the families with Aperts Syndrome, Crouzon Syndrome, Pfeiffer Syndrome and so on....we are all insulted. Sorry to take this so off topic. > > > > > > > > Did anyone see American Idol? or the News, about how mean the > > judges > > > > were to the two boys that were on the show? > > > > one of the two boys has Autism. that show makes negative > > > comments > > > > with some of the people that try to sing, and the judges can > be > > > pretty > > > > mean. I think you would have to be a strong person to try out > > > > (singing) on that show. The judges did go to far when they > made > > > > negative comments on their personal appearence. that was > > just " mean " . > > > > They are still interviewing the two boys on the news on WKTV > (2) > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 23, 2007 Report Share Posted January 23, 2007 Your post is on topic!! Someone wrote in saying: Us parents/teachers are trying to teach/educate the children in schools, not to tease, provoke others that act different, or make fun of someone who looks different.. (children can be cruel). But now watching adults on TV, poke and make fun of people, like what you just describe here on your post, will only encourage the children/people to do it more. Its already encouraging the audience>>> My sons teacher, explained to the class that she watches American Idol. She said but now, they took it a little too far, she spoke a little about what happened. then explained how it was wrong. Yeah for her!!! TV has a lot of influence on children/people. I think that show, American Idol, for being a family show, is taking away from what we are trying to educate people - not to do. At least " Jerry Springer " at the beginning of the show will say: " Not suitable for all members of the family " . They still have lots of blocks/beeps on his show to. I know that's a different type of show, but at least they don't call it a family show. with a title called " American Idol " . This show " American Idol " woke up a handful of people that see, there are still so many people, " that like to see others get humiliated " . Simmon doesn't even hesitate to degrade someone. He has no feelings at all on what he is saying to them while he is humiliating them. How many children do you think will follow Simmon? if they see a child with Hugh eyes, or looks different, how do you think they would react to them? They say parents should monitor what their children watch on TV. but lots of parents use TV as a baby sitter. Most teenagers are home alone while parents work, And watch what they want on TV. Another wrote in what they saw as a positive outcome about how the boys responded on the show. How well the boys did. I agree that is great that the boys were able to take that so well. But, They must of got teased their whole life and was able to build that wall so thick that they don't let this bother them anymore. but inside, I bet they feel lots of hurt, or maybe they just think this is how it is. either way, I don't think the message that was sent out to the world would be how well the boys handled this verbal abuse, but instead, I think the message taken was, its ok to humiliate people who look, act, dress, different.. mommysbudbud <mommysbudbud@...> wrote: They were making fun of a birth defect....rather getting a good laugh out of it. BUSH BABY: Briggs (23) is skinny and has large, bulging eyes. He says that he's been compared to Timberlake. He sings " Tearing Up My Heart " by N'Sync and Randy and a lose it. a actually turns her chair away from him to laugh. Simon says: You look a little odd, your dancing is terrible, the singing was horrendous, and you look like one of those creatures that lives in the jungle with those massive eyes. What are they called? Bush Baby. " It's a little mean to tell the guy he looks like a monkey. But at least a thinks he is adorable. was born with Aarskog Syndrome which causes facial abnormalities and shortness. His grandmother says is used to stares, but doesn't let it get him down. I have never heard of Aarskog Syndrome, it is very rare. My son was born with a rare syndrome. If you ask any of our 'friends' who either have a rare syndrome like this or have children with one of these rare syndromes how they felt about Simons comments...I guarantee everyone would feel insulted. My son, at 6 months old, went into surgery and has a scar from ear to ear. His skin was cut and pulled off of his skull...his skull was taken apart from mid eye socket to the back of his head in hopes of giving him a round head...in addition his soft spots were mostly fused up and his brain had little room left to grow. His eye sockets were brought back so that his eyes wouldn't be so prominent, like the guy on American Idol. In a few years my son will need another surgery to work on his eye sockets again because his eyes are becoming prominent yet again. For all the families with Aperts Syndrome, Crouzon Syndrome, Pfeiffer Syndrome and so on....we are all insulted. Sorry to take this so off topic. > > > > > > > > Did anyone see American Idol? or the News, about how mean the > > judges > > > > were to the two boys that were on the show? > > > > one of the two boys has Autism. that show makes negative > > > comments > > > > with some of the people that try to sing, and the judges can > be > > > pretty > > > > mean. I think you would have to be a strong person to try out > > > > (singing) on that show. The judges did go to far when they > made > > > > negative comments on their personal appearence. that was > > just " mean " . > > > > They are still interviewing the two boys on the news on WKTV > (2) > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 23, 2007 Report Share Posted January 23, 2007 Even if the kids willingly participated and knew or should have known what may happen, and even if the judges berated them like schoolyard bullies, there is still more blame to go around- what about the show editors who chose to air it? they only show a tiny percent of the auditions, so some Fox or AI editors consciously decided to include those auditions for a national audience. Shameful. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 23, 2007 Report Share Posted January 23, 2007 I didn't even think of that! Good point!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Earl and <earl.and.christine@...> wrote: Even if the kids willingly participated and knew or should have known what may happen, and even if the judges berated them like schoolyard bullies, there is still more blame to go around- what about the show editors who chose to air it? they only show a tiny percent of the auditions, so some Fox or AI editors consciously decided to include those auditions for a national audience. Shameful. --------------------------------- Don't get soaked. Take a quick peak at the forecast with the Search weather shortcut. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 23, 2007 Report Share Posted January 23, 2007 -I am pretty upset about this, and it is one of my favorite shows. I am searching for an address to write a letter to fox. If anyone finds it can they post it please? I think we should let the producers know they need to watch what they are airing. We don't want to see such cruelty passed as family entertainment. Simon went too far!!! Debbie Melamed Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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