Anatomy of a hit: ‘American Idol’
As television’s force of nature, ‘Idol’ would like to teach the world to sing — and the entertainment industry how to survive.
By Beth Pinsker
March 20, 2007
Trying to explain a juggernaut like Fox’s “American Idol” is enough to drive executives to distraction. Trying to ensure its continued success — that apparently requires a massage.
At least it does for Fox head of alternative programming Mike Darnell. For several years, Darnell has spent “Idol’s” premiere night at the Ritz-Carlton, Huntington Hotel & Spa in Pasadena. It started out as a convenience (he was there for a press tour already) and has turned into a talisman. And when he gets a massage, the show’s ratings go up.
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