January 9th, 2010 4:53 pm

Rumour: No ‘Idol’ for 2010

Despite being announced as part of Ten’s 2010 programming line up, a new report says ‘Idol’ may not be returning after all.

According to The Daily Telegraph’s Sydney Confidential, ‘Australian Idol’ may be rested in 2010, despite previously being announced as returning this season.

The article states that Industry insiders believe that the Network Ten reality series has been shelved and that the judges contracts have not been renewed.

The later has been confirmed by Ian “Dicko” Dickson.

It’s widely believed that the network are hoping to avoid another year of embarrassing ratings, following last year’s underwhelming season.

A mere 1.4 million viewers tuned in to watch Stan Walker crowned as the newest ‘Australian Idol’ last year, a long way from the 3.34 million who saw Guy Sebastian win in 2003.

Ten’s upcoming Commonwealth Games coverage have also been linked to the sudden reversal, with the Games running from October 3 to 14 — directly in the middle of the usual ‘Idol’ season.

It’s believed that the network will make their decision on whether to bring ‘Idol’ back in 2011 later in the year.

“[Ten] have asked [production company] Fremantle [Media] for ideas on how to relaunch in 2011,” said one source.

So what do you think? Are Ten making the right decision shelving ‘Idol’ this year? Will it return in 2011? Is this all just a big rumour?

Sound off in the comments.

Source: The Daily Telegraph