Just a couple of days ago I thought American Idol was starting to slowly lose the plot judging wise, with the decision to have Neil Patrick Harris as one of the many personalities temporarily replacing Paula Abdul on the show--while he sings, sure, it's still an odd decision considering his more prominent background as an actor.  And no, don't get me talking about Joe Jonas: I know he performs, but if (some of) his fans are laughing at the idea of him judging the show, well, something must be up.

But it seems the producers are getting some sense of sanity back in their heads, by recruiting a name that I never thought I'd associate with Idol: Kristin Chenoweth.  Yep, the Pushing Daisies star (and upcoming Glee guest star), and most importantly noted Broadway performer, is set to join Simon Cowell, Randy Jackson and Kara DioGuardi when the show heads to Orlando for its callback auditions later this week, according to People.

Of course, Pushing Daisies fans are familiar with Chenoweth's vocal prowess, and more so if you've seen the first run of the Broadway hit Wicked.  (I know some will scoff at this connection, but Adam Lambert came from the Los Angeles production of that musical, right?)  Her concert at New York's Metropolitan Opera House in 2007 was sold out, and she won a Tony for her performance in the musical You're A Good Man, Charlie Brown.  Now that's what I call experience.

Chenoweth joins the slowly-growing roster of temporary Paula replacements on the show, which already includes first American Idol winner Kelly Clarkson; performers Shania Twain, Mary J. Blige, Katy Perry and Victoria Beckham; and, well, Joe and Neil.  I think this audition's one I'll really be looking forward to.





- Henrik Batallones, BuddyTV Staff Columnist
(Image courtesy of WENN)