Was ‘American Idol’ Right to Reportedly Warn Contestants to ‘Beware of Political & Religious Tweets?’
- Posted on March 16, 2012 at 7:30pm by
Billy Hallowell
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According to the multiple outlets, “American Idol” contestant Colton Dixon, 20, has been told by producers that, if he wants to win, he may want to watch his social media messages when it comes to religion and politics. But it wasn’t just Dixon who received this alleged message, it seems. The warning, which the singer discussed openly in an interview with Today.com, seemed to be applied to everyone competing on the show. The Daily News continues:
The 20-year-old devout Christian, though, told Today.com that he answers to a higher authority than voting viewers.
“When we first started the Twitter and Facebook stuff, they said beware of political and religious tweets,” Dixon told the site. “Just because it can turn off voters or whatever. But, you know, being a Christian is who I am. It is a part of me musically. It is what I want to do after the show — go into Christian music.”
In the interview, Dixon went on to explain that, despite producers’ purported words on the matter, they respect who he is and what he holds dear.
“But I think that (the producers) also have a mutual respect that that is a part of who I am,” Dixon continued. “I am not going to hide it, and I am not going to stray away from it just because I am on a TV show.”
Here’s one of his recent, faith-based Facebook posts:
A screen shot from Dixon's Facebook page.
In addition to his outward and overt faith expressions, Dixon also discussed his personal faith journey in the interview, saying that he wakes up each day to do a devotion. His belief in God, of course, is evident. But so it the general notion that overstating it or overselling it (and we’re not accusing him of doing so) does hold the potential to be a detriment to one’s career.
While we haven’t heard from the producers directly about this subject, it seems Dixon wasn’t offended by their advice. Furthermore, there is something to be said about not pushing one’s faith or religion too hard. if done inappropriately or too excessively (again, we’re not saying Dixon fits that description), it could cause people to turn away or be turned off. This is as true in everyday life as it is on “American Idol.”
If one’s goal is to win the competition, turning people away by over-enunciating one’s religion would obviously be a detriment. On the flip side, being one’s self is an important value many tout and Dixon has publicly stated that he wants to showcase who he is — a Christian — to the show’s audience.
We can only assume that the producers, if Dixon’s comments are true, were likely trying to offer helpful advice. What do you think, though? Take our poll:
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Comments (74)
girlnurse
Posted on March 16, 2012 at 10:26pmI knew there was a reason I really like this kid!
Report Post »LeadNotFollow
Posted on March 16, 2012 at 10:22pm…
Report Post »Last season on American Idol, voters were definitely NOT turned off by Religion.
The winner Scotty McCreery, is a very nice guy. He is very Religious. He shared his faith and love of God, with the viewers.
Voters loved him, but you could tell that the leftist liberal judges wanted someone not so nice to win. I’m amazed at how uncomfortable evil doers are, around a really good person.
Barb
Posted on March 16, 2012 at 10:25pmExactly right, LeadnotFollow. It’s Hollyweird. We already know they don’t condone expressing religious faith. They don’t have to let that seep into Idol. I watch that show for entertainment. What do they think voters are doing…sitting at home saying, “Well, he‘s talented but he is Christian so we CAN’T possibly vote for him.
Report Post »kaydeebeau
Posted on March 16, 2012 at 11:42pmThe only succesful “Idol” winners have all had a strong religious faith…..perhpas the warning was issued to try to counteract that inconvenient truth
Report Post »Marci
Posted on March 17, 2012 at 12:33amIt tells a different story than what the leftist and atheist activist loons want the world to think—that people don‘t respect someone’s faith. He still gets the votes because he is awesome at what he does.
Report Post »Jaycen
Posted on March 17, 2012 at 12:57amIf this guy was an unappologetic Communist, you’d be trashing him and telling him to keep his opinions to himself. I’d agree, but my point is there’s nothing wrong with Idol producers warning contestants about the dangers of broadcasting your views.
Some people should definitely keep their mouths shut. Crap, I‘ve got a list of actors I won’t watch that’s a mile long.
Report Post »Ballot_Box_Revolution
Posted on March 17, 2012 at 8:42amI see no problem with “warning” them, as long as they are not forced not to do it.
Report Post »concho
Posted on March 17, 2012 at 8:48amBut it is definitely okay for A.I. to inject Obummer into an Al Green song on the show right? we, as a family, will no longer be watching this piece of leftist propaganda.
Report Post »sunshineIQ
Posted on March 17, 2012 at 9:09pmWell, they finally exposed themselves for what they are. Proved to me the media has been blacklisting of religious and conservatives for decades. Then they call them racists. It’s almost laughable the stupidity of people. McCarthyism lasted barely a few years. Think about it. All the conservative religious types are ignored by the mainstream media in favor of left thinking individuals who are raised to the status of celebrities and stars.
Report Post »Barb
Posted on March 16, 2012 at 10:22pm@Joe: I am free to throw my support behind any Idol contestant I choose. And I can do that for whatever reason I choose. I find it refreshing that a young man is proud to be a Christian. Why would he need to hide that? And then to tell him to watch his political tweets as well? They’re afraid that liberals and atheists will get the wrong impression and think that Idol likes to actually have young people with good Christian values.
What WERE they thinking? The winner last year wore a cross for every performance.
Report Post »MrKnowItAll
Posted on March 17, 2012 at 5:04pmIslam can LIE for the Good Of Allah! Want Proof. Listen Closely to Obama.
Report Post »ncstatemom3
Posted on March 16, 2012 at 10:09pmI may not be remembering correctly but it seems I remember one of the contestants on last years show wearing an Occupy t-shirt. I can remember not being very amused though. Then we turn it on the other night and who do we see but Barry. So who is being “political?”
Report Post »Infidel49
Posted on March 16, 2012 at 10:01pmWhy would anyone want to talk politics with them? Understand this, just because you sing or dance or play make believe on Tv doesn’t mean you are smart. These people are just full of themselves. Now, shut up and sing.
Report Post »anniebsings
Posted on March 16, 2012 at 9:41pmA.I. has every right to suggest that the contestants keep their religious and political views to themselves. The contestants have every right to either take this advice or not. This young man, has chosen to use the opportunity he has been blessed with, to spread His word. I’m gonna vote for him next week!
Report Post »THXll38
Posted on March 16, 2012 at 9:40pmSocial conservatives and modern day liberals suck. Just be yourself and screw the people that think otherwise. If you are a social con, you are no different than the modern day liberal.
Report Post »HorseCrazy
Posted on March 16, 2012 at 10:50pmactually they are completely different. the liberals try and silence conservatives while conservatives would rather have more dialog I could name many more examples.
Report Post »Ballot_Box_Revolution
Posted on March 17, 2012 at 9:51amthey are the same in that they want to direct society in the direction they want to see it. Both groups love to use the constitution when it serves their needs, but they are both willing to look past it when they need to.
But the more scary of the two are the liberals, because of their ends justify the means mentality…This is 100 times more scary than a social conservative who WOULD LIKE to see me go to church every Sunday.
I just want to be me….that’s all…..enjoy weekend cook outs, listen to music, think about great ideas that could make me rich someday…..But now I cant do any of that without politics messing everything up…..and thinking about being successful today is looked at as thinking about how you can hurt a ton of less fortunate people…..hahahaha
Report Post »AmazingGrace8
Posted on March 17, 2012 at 2:13pm@horsecrazy
Report Post »Agree.
HorseCrazy
Posted on March 16, 2012 at 9:36pmI am glad they do this and warn the contestants. they are not banning them from doing as they please just allowing them the information. This is similar to what they do with young NFL players, they warn them of women who scam by having babies to steal your paychecks, getting in fights at bars etc the basic pitfalls of new found fame. This is good advice but it is up to each person to chose for themselves. More info is always better than the alternative. It seems to me that Colton knows where his priorities are and is willing to take the consequences of his new fame with his Christianity. My guess is it will actually help him
Report Post »Less1leg
Posted on March 16, 2012 at 9:34pmYou know, with today’s crazy social activists out there at least telling contestants about being careful of what you say and what you tweet is a pretty reasonable advice from a liberal MSM outlet program. At least they are giving a heads up before heading out and getting creamed by really bizarre OWS types willing to humiliate you and attack you at every opportunity they can muster.
Report Post »LiviLee
Posted on March 16, 2012 at 9:34pmStill don’t like his singing, but I like him a lot more now. Way to stay true to yourself, Colton!
Report Post »Bella
Posted on March 16, 2012 at 9:17pmColton Dixon should ABSOLUTELY be who he truly is! Why should he “sit down and shut up”? Isn’t that part of the problem in this country?? We have to be quiet. We don’t want to offend anyone. The heck with that….stand up for what is right!! I will NOT be politically correct. I will NOT comply. Besides that fact that American Idol was “plugging” Obama this week. They have to give a “shout out” to Obama, but a kid on the show is supposed to be quiet about being a Christian??
Report Post »wtd
Posted on March 16, 2012 at 8:41pmThe last time I paid any attention to American Idol, the two top winners, Scotty McCreery & Lauren Alaina were both consistently animated about their beliefs – and most likely won the audience over with their healthy all-American God-loving personalities. It’s more likely the judges were attempting to level the competition since overt religious beliefs appear to provide an advantage to religious competitors. It just proves America believes in God despite all of Hollywood’s, the msm & statist academia’s attempts to undermine it. God bless America!
Report Post »Smokey_Bojangles
Posted on March 16, 2012 at 8:40pmWith Republican backed NDAA,HR 347, and The Patriot Act it would be a shame if Eric Holder (with Republican Support) killed one of these kids.
Report Post »geonj
Posted on March 16, 2012 at 8:39pmhallowell, you shall love the Lord our God with all your heart, all your soul and all your strength if that is too over the top for you, tough.
Report Post »randy
Posted on March 16, 2012 at 8:38pmThe 20-year-old devout Christian, though, told Today.com that he answers to a higher authority than voting viewers.
If I even wasted my time watching this idiotic show, I’d vote for the kid!
Report Post »quiltgal
Posted on March 16, 2012 at 8:16pmYou are who you are and you should never try to hide it. Trying to hide one’s fervent beliefs for the sake of fame and fortune is totally wrong, a destructive denial of self that leads so many public personalities into drugs and alcohol. Good for Colton for resisting this temptation. Idol’s producers may feel the need to warn contestants about the consequences of speaking out in honesty. On the other hand, they may just be activist liberals who are blind to the number, strength, and resolve of this country’s conservatives.
Report Post »Joe Bonham
Posted on March 16, 2012 at 8:25pmWhy do they have to be liberal? How do you know that? Liberal OR Conservative, its best for someone in show biz to stay away from controversial issues
Report Post »kaydeebeau
Posted on March 16, 2012 at 11:47pmYeah but that fence straddled between your legs gets very uncomfortable after awhile -
Report Post »kralspaces
Posted on March 16, 2012 at 8:15pmAdam Lambert was probably warned about his gayness having some effect on his winning, so he definitely throttled it back a lot for the show. Remember his first outing after AI? OMG!
Report Post »kaydeebeau
Posted on March 16, 2012 at 11:49pmAnd his career is where now as compared to oh say Carrie Underwood?
Report Post »Slice_Of_Life
Posted on March 16, 2012 at 8:06pmMay God Bless this talented young man. It’s so refreshing to see (and hear) the courage and conviction of one’s faith. Too frequently we see the “dark side” when some are cast into the public eye. I would much rather support a person (in this case Josh) who stays true to self. How often do the “entertainment” headlines read of drug abuse, alcohol addiction, DUI’s, domestic assaults/battery, theft, robberies, suicides, homicides and the list goes on and on. Thank you Josh and remain devoted and humble as you journey down the path of life.
Report Post »whatthecrazy
Posted on March 16, 2012 at 8:05pmLook i need for who ever does these little voting polls to save the totties for after work,okie dokie?
Report Post »whatthecrazy
Posted on March 16, 2012 at 8:12pmOne more thing, no it is none of thier buisness if these people reveal the fact that they are Christian or otherwise,so Idol can you do that because if you start coming off as anti GOD you might just lose some voters yourselves!!!!!!!!!
Report Post »Patriot Z
Posted on March 16, 2012 at 7:58pmyes it was a good thing to warn them. they are kids trying to break into showbusiness. you can turn off or incite hatred from your audience by tweeting the wrong thing. we see it all the time. if you want to be an entertainer, be an entertainer. you want to be an activist then be an activist. tbut the 2 have a hard time coexisting in the same person. get out, vote, understand the issues by all means. but way too many celebs an wannabees throw their weight behind issues, they know nothing of and make no sense becsue they think it will garner attention and it ends up killing their careers. conservative cebs have it the worst.
Report Post »Barb
Posted on March 16, 2012 at 7:57pmWell, I know who we’ll be voting for now, at my house. Unbelievable that propaganda can even infilitrate a dope reality singing competition, that is supposed to be sheer escape for people.
God forbid we should have a 20 year old be a role model for the younger generation, if he is a Christian and has strong faith in God.
Are they kidding me?
I WILL NOT COMPLY and I will be sure to continue voting for Colton!
Report Post »USAOneNationUnderGod
Posted on March 16, 2012 at 8:07pmNicely said Barb!
Report Post »Joe Bonham
Posted on March 16, 2012 at 8:23pm@Barb
For God’s sake why does EVERYTHING have to be “propaganda”. The show management was just trying to help these kids out. And they were absolutely right. The best way to not alienate fans is to stay out of “religion and politics”. This has nothing to do with liberals, atheists, communists, or fluoride in the water… just chill the hell out and try to understand the good sense in the advice.
Report Post »kralspaces
Posted on March 16, 2012 at 8:40pmBarb, the judges beg Colton to participate again this year. His sister was the one who wanted to be on the show. Colton didn’t get very far last year, but the producers know he is their top contestent this year. They want him to make it to the finals and so do I. I vote for him because I love his voice and singing style, not because he is anything else. As Laura Ingraham would say, shut up and sing.
Report Post »Ballot_Box_Revolution
Posted on March 17, 2012 at 10:10amJoe i think it became propaganda when the show blatantly gave “big ups” to Obama and then piped in huge crowd cheers. It lets you know the mindset of the producers….
I think there was nothing wrong with the warning, but when you do the math you can easily spot it.
Report Post »Itsjusttim
Posted on March 16, 2012 at 7:49pmI‘ll have to be in the middle on this one because it’s a false choice. I can’t pick “No way. They were right on.” Or do you mean: No way that they were right on?
Report Post »Itsjusttim
Posted on March 16, 2012 at 8:01pmIncidentally there is only one God the Father, and people absorb the light with their fruit or the lack of fruit a multitude of different ways. Therefore in order for America to truly be One Nation under God, then people have to be allowed the freedom to practice their religion as they want to unless it takes away from the life and liberty of another person, because then the one who loses liberty can’t very well be practicing their own religion. And if everyone can’t practice their own religion, then God isn’t dwelling with men. Therefore I guess it depends on the perception of the people who are contestants. Because obviously if a person doesn’t like it, then they could just not be a contestant.
Report Post »TRONINTHEMORNING
Posted on March 16, 2012 at 7:38pmI may be slow tonite; Or, just reading it wrong, but isn‘t that poll a bit funky in it’s question and offering of answers? Hmmmm. Where’s the help button?
Report Post »TRONINTHEMORNING
Posted on March 16, 2012 at 7:51pmOk, I was slow; I get it now. “No way. They were right on.”…Kind of a 60′s slang phrase, I guess.
Report Post »TRONINTHEMORNING
Posted on March 16, 2012 at 7:36pmDo what you think is right for you, kid. I don’t watch the show normally, but saw it last week. That Josh fellow who sang some Percy Sledge was amazing! Oh, and he‘s a pastor’s kid. Ain‘t nothin’ wrong with that!
Report Post »lukerw
Posted on March 16, 2012 at 7:35pmYou have the Right… to remain Silent!
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