In these talent competitions do you think sympathy stories should come into play, whether its the constestant themself or others repeating it? Do they adversely affect those that don't have one, but are just average joes trying to get a break? Or do you think hearing them over and over could actually work against them?
No, I don't think they should come into play. But then I don't think they should come into play in the Olympics either, but NBC has made it a high art -- or low camp, depending on your point of view.
Do they adversely affect those that don't have one, but are just average joes trying to get a break? Or do you think hearing them over and over could actually work against them?
I think it depends on the contestant. I think this is what counts most, and in this order. The winner doesn't have to have all these qualities, but most of them. You say well, what about Ruben? He had six of these things going for him. What about Fantasia? Also six.
Looks (especially for women)
Body (especially for women)
Charisma/personality
Good performance skills
Being different/Ability to stand out from the crowd
Few, if any, negative judges' comments
Interesting backstory
Vocal talent
Once again I have to emphasize I'm a cynic.