American Jesus--er, Idol

I don't have a TV. But I watch American Idol online, the day after. I haven't watched last night's "Idol Gives Back" extravaganza, but I've come across the online buzz surrounding the song that closed the show, a contemporary Christian tune called, "Shout to the Lord."

It's only the most assertive step in what is becoming an American Idol Jesus march. Over the last several weeks, contestants (especially David Archuleta) have increasingly chosen songs with overt references to God, from "Smoky Mountain Memories" to "God Bless the USA." It's a trend both Meredith and I have noted with some discomfort.

The producers of Idol and the executives at Fox have certainly figured out that there is a heap of ratings dollars to be made off of the religious sensibilities of God-fearing Idol worshipers. Maybe next week they'll start and end the show with prayer.