I'm not a fan of Adam Lambert, but it doesn't take one to realize that what ABC is doing to the American Idol runner-up is quite ridiculous.

Let's begin, of course, with that performance at the American Music Awards a couple of weeks back. It was aired at around 11pm, but it still shocked viewers--a sexually-charged performance with simulated erotic actions and other suggestive bits. We all know the outrage it caused, both from viewers who found the performance too much, and from fans who think people are just being hysterical over it.

Adam, of course, eventually admitted that he got carried away by that performance, especially when more details came out, especially when it was revealed that his rehearsals weren't as risque as the final output. Still, he wouldn't apologize, saying that he is "a performer, not a babysitter." He said those words in an interview with CBS' The Early Show--and he came there because ABC's Good Morning America cancelled his appearance at the very last minute. Understandable, since you cannot afford to have a possibly risky performance early in the morning. But, of course, his performance ended up being more about the music than the bits in between.

As Adam continued appearing in other shows to promote his debut album, For Your Entertainment, ABC was still not done with him. Last week, they canceled his appearance on their late night talk show Jimmy Kimmel Live, as well as a slot on the network's New Year's Eve celebration. It was something Adam himself confirmed on Twitter, but as he told his fans, we should all look at the positive side.

So, the idea is, ABC might as well stick with their decision and not have Adam in any of their shows for the time being, right? At least until the furor over that first performance dies down? I doubt it will, because suddenly where Adam performs next has become a matter of significant interest. Good publicity, yes. And guess where he is appearing next?

On the daytime talk show The View. On ABC.

Actually, it's because Adam is part of Barbara Walters' annual Most Fascinating People list, which will be announced in full this Wednesday. Her interview with Adam will appear on The View the following day, as well as a performance, both of which are taped.

So what really is your stance, ABC? That first performance was too much for you, even if it did air well into late night, and even if you edited it out in the West Coast. So much, in fact, that you cancelled his next two appearances on your network, and an upcoming third. Already people have noticed: we all know the fans' reactions, and then there's the statement from gay rights advocacy group GLAAD, which said that you are subjecting Adam "to a double standard ... as an openly gay performer". What's this, then?

If it's a complete turnaround in your stance, then while it looks a bit ridiculous to me, kudos for finally recognizing that Adam is not all about his crazy stunts.

If it's an effort to gain publicity for the Most Fascinating People special this week, then I don't know what to feel about it.

Then again, as I said before, and as we all know--and saw after this debacle--any publicity is good publicity.





(Image courtesy of WENN)