Simon is the sensible one of the 3 -- alhtough Randy is starting to follow in his footsteps. He says exactly what a lot of people are thinking and his intention is always to bring the best out of the performers. He's a big reason why AI is such a hit!!!! You keep doing what you're doing Simon!!!!!

The world could only handle one SIMON,we wouldnt want another one.

Simon is better than Paula and Randy put together and then some.....You said Paula is a good kisser...Shop around a little.

Simon dont get married and dont go fathering any babies,it would ruin your reputation for being the Hottest man on the planet.Do you know what I love about you is most men have to work at being sexy,you, dont have to try YOU JUST ARE..!!!!!!!!!!!!

I agree with the gal that said he is hot yes, he is dang hot.simon do you ever read these or am I just wasting a compliment?I sure hope you do cause I love it when you get that cute hot grin going.....Your even Hot when your ticked off,I have seen it and you are just the total package.I would die even for an autograph.Dont worry about the nasty Brit,he aint got nothing on you.He is a great and cool winner of celebrity Apprentice but hes not much for looks like you are Simon,gee I better get busy or I will be trying to find your phone number.

SIMON MAKES THE WHOLE SHOW AND EVERYBODY THAT READS THIS KNOWS IT TO BE THE TRUTH.EVEN IF YOU THINK HE IS MEAN YOU JUST HAVE TO TUNE IN TO SEE WHAT HE IS GOING TO SAY.....YOU KNOW YOU DO,ONLY I LOVE HIM.THERE IS A DIFFERENCE HUH SIMON

I LOVE SIMON TO DEATH AND I AGREE HE IS SO HOT.THE SHOW WITHOUT SIMON WOULD NOT BE RIGHT.IF HE EVER LEAVES I WONT WATCH.HE MAKES THE SHOW.I SPEAK FOR ALOT OF PEOPLE WHO FEEL LIKEWISE.NO SUGAR COATING JUST THE TRUTH,IF THATS MEAN THEN SO BE IT.............LOVE YA SIMON HOW ABOUT A DATE !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!YOU TOTALLY HOT HUNK.....

I love you Ellen and love your show, I hardly miss it but I LOVE Simon for who he is and I wish a lot of people are like him; blunt, honest, firm and straight forward. He is not a man pleaser telling people what they want to hear but rather I should say he is a GOD pleaser, always giving the hard truth, irrespective of how its taken ....but let's not forget that the "truth they say is bitter". The same HARD TRUTH was why JESUS was crucified but later what happened? ….The truth prevailed. Simon makes constructive criticisms and its people like him that made me what I'm today, FOCUSED AND HARD WORKING. We need more SIMONS in our society these days for a better world! And anyone who takes his corrections and criticisms in good fate will sure make it. Think of it, whoever he says is good has a long way to go and vise vase. Simon thumbs up for you!

*too honest..

I am a big fan of American Idol as well. I think Simon is fair just needs to watch his comments, sometimes he is just to honest. Bet he is FUN to live with!

Simon is the best judge on there. He doesn't twist his arms/hands, he speaks clearly and straight to the point. He doesn't belittle everyone by calling them "dogs" or "hey dude", and he certainly doesn't "sugar coat" the performance. It is what it is....he says it straight and I appreciate his straightforwardness!

Simon does what he does because he knows it gets a rise out of people. HE has a weird way of going about it, but he gets results.

Dear Ellen,

I stopped wathching american idiol because of Simon. He is just plain rude. I think sometimes one has to be more polite to people.

Simon is the only reason I watched AI.Not only does he know what he's talking about, but he's usually right and on the spot.

The 'truth hurts' and that is why some people intepret honesty as being mean. Maybe he's too honest!

Hey Ellen!
First, let me tell you you are soooooo cool even my kids love watching you.I dont think Simon is mean he is disrespectful. He always looks like he doesnt want to be there. His facial expression is like, " Oh I hate this job". But, one thingis true he is always right about who stays and who goes.I hate it when he is mean to cutie pie Ryan.

this is how I look at it, Simon says what everyone is thinking deep inside. the truth

okay lets get this straight . simon cowell is not mean at all ! he's just doing his job, but one thing i know about simon is he is so hottt!!

I love Simon, he knows his stuff, that is why he is so successful. Not only that, he is usually spot on, although sometimes his analogies are a bit confusing. On the whole, I don't think American Idol would be the success it is without him.

Ok,I think that Simon is great but sometimes he can be really mean. But i think that the contestants take it really well, if it were me i would be mad. Randy is the only sane judge on the show haha

Simon HAS toned it down a little this year...but the one thing I truly believe that Simon always tells the truth as he sees it. I appreciate his comments because he doesn't get wishy washy. He and Paula are a perfect balance for each other.

No- Simon isn't meaner this year than last,in fact he seems to have toned it down a lot this year!
Has anyone noticed that he seems to "take care" of Paula a lot??!!What's going on there?
Does anyone know what the hand on his head means?

Ellen,
I don't think Simon is meaner this year, but I am confused at a lot of his comments. Last week, I loved Brook's Here Comes the Sun and the Irish girl's BlackBird. I just don't get why a BlackBird song was so wrong. Maybe he needs to explain himself a bit more so the non-producers will better understand his slams.
Anyway, I'm a big fan and enjoy the show, but your show is still number one in my MUST SEE list.
Lindoo

Hey Ellen:
Simon is no meaner this year as he has been any other year, as far as I am concerned! Most people do not like to be insulted for something that they feel they are passionate about but they put themselves in that position. Simon is rude, you know it, I know it and so do the people who try out for Idol, know it! If you can't take the heat, get out of the kitchen! Sorry to disagree with you, but that's why he is there. If it were up to Randy and Paula to pick an Idol. They would all win!!
Love your show!!!!!

SIMON JUST SAYS WHAT WE ALL WANT TO SAY.I THINK HE IS THE GREATEST AND HE TRUELY MAKES THE SHOW I CANT WAIT TO HEAR WHAT HE HAS TO SAY.

We see talent contests all the time but Simon makes the show worth wathing. The suspense of his answers the surprise when he likes someone. It seems to surprise him more than anyone else when he says something nice. Can you imagine being his wife or girlfriend?

Simon Cowell is my hero. I love that he is brutally honest. Why not. You know when i was young no one sugar coated anything. We were disappointed but it only made us stronger and work harder. Keep doin what your doing. Hell, I would. American Idol should hire me.

I watch AI all the time and I have to say I just can't stand Simon. I have never seen someone so mean. Yes he maybe doing his job but, there are ways of expressing constuctive criticism without being down right mean about it.

I love the piece things apart with very fair opinions. This season I have many opinions on American Idol. Here's the thing about Simon. Majority of what Simon is really deep down trying to say is right; however, he covers it up with such rude and uncalled for comments that the contestants don't always see what he was really getting at, just that they're terrible and forgettable in his eyes. I have so much more to say on this.

Shannon

I dont think he is very mean this season or it is that the contestonts are just so good ther is really nothing to be mean about

First of all, Ellen, I LOVE YOUR SHOW!!!!!! Simon has always been a meanie! I like him anyway because he is brutally honest. Simon has managed to retain that child-like quality of calling it like he sees it. Every now and then, he does stray into areas of criticism that have nothing to do with the vocals or performance. However, I think Simon is a necessary evil; he prepares the contestants for real world criticisms. GO SIMON!!!

Dear Ellen, You know I thought the same of Simon, until I saw him on Opra, when he paid in full the mortgage of a couple whose little daughter was stricken with cancer. For them to take her to her daily treatments, one had to miss work. Mom works for their health insurance and Dad works to pay the Mortgage. So while Dad was off, no paycheck, Simon paid the Mortgage in FULL out of his personal checking account. Talk about pay it forward. . . .it changed my thoughts about him and I hope yours also.

I love Simon because he's most always right on the money and is the ONLY one that is not afraid to tell the truth. Paula tickles ears and Randy drives me nuts with his "dog" crap. Just say what you mean and mean what you say.

As for the meanest he's ever been in a season, I think that was to Mandisa with the needing a bigger stage comment. That was ridiculous.

I love Simon. He is frank and funny. I almost always agree with him. Paula glosses her opinion over too much. Thank God for Simon!

I think Simon is the only one who tells it like it is. Too bad Paula can't stop being so wishy washy. I am sick of how Randy, Paula and Ryan treat Simon. It's OK for them to interrupt and cut him down but not OK if Simon reciprocates!

He might act tough, but he's just doing his job, I think he's very honest in his words, lifes tougher than him, he's just trying to prepare you for it. It's nice to see someone honest these days! I wish he could say something about the tv shows that are on, because there's is nothing really good on for the young users.

hi Ellen, am from Manila, Philippines and we love your show. Your show is being aired here 2 day behind but it's ok. I can say that Simon is not mean but he's just being honest & direct to the point.Most of the contestants deserve his criticisms. They should take it constructively so they can improve or change career.

More power to you and your show!!

Simon is just telling the truth & i really like him,his only honest w/ the contestants but sometimes it really hurts!! hi ellen!i really love ur show,ur GREAT person,i love you!!

Ellen,

I know Simon may seem harsh, but he IS the only judge that is honest and provides constructive criticism. Everyone waits to hear what Simon has to say! The other reality is, it is entertainment - if he were nice, the dynamic of the show wouldn't be the same.

Alexandra

Dear Ellen,
I don't think Simon is getting meaner, it's that the contestants are getting weider. From the clips they show from the different cities, I'm surprised they even have brain cells and ear drums left. At least he helps filter out the bad ones so we can at least have the opportunity to listen to the better ones. I say ,'GO SIMON."

hi ellen,i think simon has become nicer then he use to be.but there has alway,s been something about him that makes you like him no matter what he says.i love american idol,and if simon would ever leave the show it would never be the same.i truely belaeve he is right on target.ellen keep up the great work,we love you here in reisterstown md!

Hi Ellen
Its me Doris, from way out and up here in Ontario, Canada. Actually i live in Niagara-on-the-Lake which is about a 20 minute drive to Niagara Falls.
I absolutely love love love your show. (YES!!! Contrary to popular belief we do have tv's in Canada and we don't ski year round!!!) I try to watch it everyday except when i'm working a 12 hour shift and then(sadly)i miss it. :(
Anyway, back to Simon. I think he's great. He says it like it is, sometimes a bit harshly, but he's usually right on. I can't stand Paula always interrupting him when he gets to speak...the only comment she makes is an echo of what Randy has said or she tells the contestant that they look good....good grief! Its not a fashion show, its a talent show. Keep on giving it Simon.

First of all, I love you Ellen!!!
To my opinion, sometimes Simon sounds really mean but I have to admit that he is always right.... I know , and I believe he knows also, there is a nicer way to put it but it is what sells the show ....a big show and s o m e people watch it just because of him and
e v e r y b o d y waits what he is going to say.
Second, did I say that I love you Ellen?!
Cannot wait to see your show tomorrow!

I believe and go along with Sam, People just don't understand what constructive criticism is ,and they really need to try to listen, ( ah, over all the Booing of Simon) what he is trying to get across to them. Connie, Heck I am 62 , I get it . Leave Simon alone , and yes I watch it every week.

I think simon is mean but you have to understand that it's all constructive criticisms. he's been in the music business for a long time and knows what he's talking about. he just wants them to be the best they can.

I like Simon, except when he's being mean to my favorite... I think he's funnier during the auditions...

I love Simon. He's sexy and adorable and honest too. My God could he be the perfect man?! Does he wash dishes???

I think that it is probably Simon's job to be the so called "foil" on the show against Paula and Randy. He usually gives a pretty true critique of the contestants. I find myself agreeing with him quite often. It's too bad if he hurts their feelings but that's "show biz".

I respect all of the judges comments. What i can not stand is that Simon says "SORRY" after he says his. What is he sorry for, it is his opinion.

I think he is just very honest, he could be a little more constructive with his critisism, but i usually agree with him.

I think Simon has been incredibly patient this year. When I first started watching Idol I thought this man was really mean but as I continued I realized that the problem for him was his honesty. He knows what he is talking about and unfortunately that comes off as being mean or cruel. What people need to remember is what he says exactly "it is just his opinion". Paula could try a little bit of it herself. She goes out of her way to be kind and sweet when she should be saying exactly how she feels about a performance.

I believe Simon is very honest and gives good advice.He is very direct and the performers know where they stand with him.You can't sugar coat criticism.Being honest is the best advice you can give someone.Making it in Hollywood reqires a great deal of stamina,perserverance and being able to believe in oneself s in any venture. Criticism helps one to grow if it is constructive and I believe Simon is very straight forward.

Simon is not mean at all. I think that the people that think he is,,,don't really like the truth. Simon says what other people wish they could, but are afraid of what people might think if they did. I really admire him for remaining true to himself even if most don't like his bluntness...

Simon is the best. What's that saying "If you can't stand the heat, stay out of the kitchen.
Those contestants know what they are getting into. Besides, it's a show people. Remember ratings!!!!

I don't believe that he is any "meaner" than before. The "Idols" seem to be much more likeable this season, making his comments seem harsher than they have been. I think his opinion is valued by many, but he can get carried away..I think that the dynamic of the judges would not be the same without his experience.

Simon is British, in England we are hot on handing out constructive criticism, just a lil discouragement goes a long way ya no! Besides some of the fools on American Idol need it!

I did like it when he said to some guy "your nuts" ha ha! Well its been suggested :)

Simon is the tops. in england when he does x-factor with sharon osbourne its just so funny. Ellen ur brill

From claire in chesterfield, england.

How can Simon be mean,over here in England he is the voice add for the R.S.P.C.A. anyone who loves animals has to be okay . Guess its just showbiz the mean act..

Hi Ellen, first of all I must tell you, you are the most honest person on TV. None of this "air kissing" like Kelly on Regis. You always show your feelings and I think that is great.

As for Simon, I think he also in being honest with his coments. He is almost always "Spot on" with his comments. Most TV watchers know nothing about music and only comment with their own feelings.
Most of the contestants need a wake up call to improve their performance. I think he is needed as a judge that gives honest criticism.

I love your show, but I miss some of them and I do not have a TVO to tape them, so I go on your web site to see as much as I can. Love you, Dee

I think Simon is trying to come across real mean, because it pisses people off and the ratings go through the roof. He was being especially mean to almost everyone last week, and it was over the top, uncalled for meanness. It's all about ratings and profits anymore.

Hey you Ellen! Well, we are pretty similar in a lot of ways - we both just turned 50, we're both blond & we both love to dance. But...I think Simon tells it like it is and he's usually dead on. Nice won't help these contestants further their careers (if they deserve one!) Nor will being called "dawg" and being told "you look pretty". So no, if they can't take the criticism now, the business isn't for them. But you are GREAT!

Hello,
People, stop fighting! Some people may think Simon is too mean, and I agree and disagree. I think a lot of what he says is not intentional and is hinest, but he can sound harsh and hurt the contestant's feelings. Sometimes he will say some hurtful things. And about Paris Hilton, I think it's fine that Ellen is doing that. Maybe Paris is trying to change now, I don't know I don't know Pairs or Ellen personally.
Thanks for the time:)

Love you Ellen!

P.S. Happy Easter to everyone!

Grow up people-he's being dead honest with everyone-and is usually bang on!! He does know what he's doing. If we should complain about anyone-it's Paris Hilton-what the heck is she doing on the show? Now Simon should have a go at her. Ellen I'm really quite diappointed that you think, that we as a audience are even mildly interested in her. Yes her new movie is doing piles for her new image and community service detail. Didn't watch that show-and won't ever.
thanks for the opportunity

How can anyone 'like' someone else who is continually, on-purpose, putting other people down and calling them really horrible names?

constructive citicism and mean spirited, humiliating, harshness are two entirely different things. My question is: Do they choose some contestants that they know are not as good as others so that they can cut them down in front of millions of people just to make what they call "good" tv? At the expense of someone's feelings. Seems like that is the trend today but I certainly do not find it entertaining or pleasant in any way. THEY choose THESE contestants and let better ones go - if the singers don't meet their standards why did they pick them in the first place? I've quit watching AI and I've been with them from the beginning.

I like Simon Cowell. It takes what he is trying to tell these people to go to the top. Some are not listening to him. That is a mistake. If he is saying it harsh then he needs too how else will they listen to him. If he says in a wisper you really need to do this or that do you think they will listen no. He really is trying to help them. Wake up people. Simon and Ellen Fan.

I like Simon Cowell. It takes what he is trying to tell these people to go to the top. Some are not listening to him. That is a mistake. If he is saying it harsh then he needs too how else will they listen to him. If he says in a wisper you really need to do this or that do you think they will listen no. He really is trying to help them. Wake up people. Simon and Ellen Fan.

Hey Ellen and Ellen Fans!

I have been asking people to write Ellen about Kyle Hickok.  Today I am writing to ask that you all say a prayer for Kyle and his family.  Kyle is having a hard time of things right now and could really use the extra prayers.  Though I do not attend church regularly, I strongly believe in the power of prayer. 

Kyle's birthday is coming up on March 25th.  I have managed to procure a phone number and an e-mail address to reach Emeril's assistant.  The woman who gave me the number is a Private Events Coordinator for Emeril.  I am hoping that maybe we can get Emeril to call Kyle for his birthday.  A call from Emeril might be just what the doctor ordered.  Kyle probably won't be able to talk but the hope is that maybe hearing Emeril's voice may help in some way.

I have picked up a few things for Kyle for his birthday and will be sending them over night so that they are there on his birthday.  It is my hope that maybe the family will get to see a long awaited smile on Kyle's face.

Please stop by his CaringBridge website to offer a kind word and a birthday wish.  I think knowing that so many people out there are thinking of him on his birthday will really mean a lot to Kyle.  The address is:  http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/kjnh

Thank you all so much for all the messages left already for Kyle, lets try to help the little Warrior Man (as his family calls him) get through this rough time.

All my best to everyone and a very Happy Easter!

Kelley Wilson

I think Simon is really mean, he doesn't have to give his opinion and be mean without a heart but he does! He thinks he's all that I would give him change back!

Ellen, you should watch the german pop idol - show. We have great young singers like: Monika Ivkic, Stella Salato (yes, her real name) and Thomas Godoj.

I think Simon is very honest. I also believe that the contestants should be prepared for constructive criticism....I also believe that Simon is very SEXY!!!

To say he's a little meaner is putting it mildly.
I've had to turn the channel. I cry for the people standing up there before the whole world and having to be degraded rather than critiqued. I used to love that show but his comments have made it difficult for me to watch. Most of those kids are not trained in vocals, song presentation and everything else or they wouldn't be on AI in the first place. I think he's been doing it so long that he forgets they are amateurs. Any one
that thinks mean is sexy should have to come on your show and sing and be critiqued by Simon. I don't think they would ever applaud him again. With everything that's going on in the world I wouldn't think putting themselves in someone else's shoes would be that much of a stretch.
I live by the standard of "treat others as you
would like to be treated".

This is only the second season that I have watched Idol...at first Simon seemed harsh to some contestants but now I think he is the only one on the show that isn't a jerk. Ryan needs to grow up and quit trying to get attention by his comments toward Simon...it does NOT add to to the show.

EVERYTHING I AM THINKING SIMON SAYS, SO I KNOW HE IS ONLY BEING HONEST WITH THEM, I DID NOTICE THIS YEAR HE IS BEING A NICER ABOUT DESTROYING DREAMS.

More than being mean, I think Simon is giving a lot of criticism that is just plain moronic. The things he's been saying to the contestants this season are really off the wall. I don't see how anyone can take what he says as "constructive criticism", as he likes to call it. I don't think he even knows how to pass along anything constructive that can be understood by other human beings.

So Simon, "if I'm being perfectly honest", I think you should take a few etiquette classes and brush up on your people skills.

I think Simon says what he truly feels about the music. The other two sugar coat things. Ryan is just plain rude this season along with Randy, Paula, and even the contestants are getting in on it. Simon is out numbered and I don't think he is deliberately being rude unlike the others.

Simon has a problem fitting in, he is placed up on this pedistole , watch him he never looks forward always to the side, and in order in fit in with Randy and Paula he has to say stupid stuff to paula that make no sence at all just to get her to laugh so it looks like he is a part of the team I would like to know what instrument Simon has played or what goup he was in or before American Idol other then being a judge in britian what were his sucess that qualify him to be an American Idol Judge.(remember his boy band L-divo) was after American Idol first season ,Simon cant help it it is the way he is, People like him though that are put on such a high pedestal are more likely to be deep down depressed.

dear ellen, i like simon except he is a little rude ok alot rude. he usally is right on . but he doesn't have to tramatize these young people could be a little nicer when he openes his mouth. but i think thats the english. take a look at peerce (spelt wrong) on the apprintice. sorry i'm the worst speller for my age group which is old. love daphne p.s. i like you more than simon and what happened to randy's dog pound. that was kind of fun. randy not so fun this year.

Yes, I do think Simon is meaner than usual this year. I particularly hate the way he says "sorry!" after insulting a contestant. There is a difference between criticizing and insulting. What he's doing is insulting. He's always been rude and nasty, but this year he's really crossed the line. He should tone it down a bit.

Paula's behavior is really bothering me. What is she on? Sometimes she's normal (well, normal for her) and other times she acts like she's high as a kite.

Randy is a bit pompous this year. I always thought of him as a sweet lovable guy, but this season, he's a bit too standoffish for me.

Let's talk about the contestants. What really bothers me this year is that there are contestants who have already had record deals. In my opinion, this show should give opportunities to people who have never had a record deal or been hired professionally for any reason. It should be an amateur competion, not a professional one.

Just my opinions.
Rita

I really respect and most often agree with Simon's opinion. I believe that he is well qualified to give those opinions. I think he is who he is and has always been. Most people from the UK come accross differently than we do and I also think that the words in english don't come as naturally for him as they do for someone who is american and speaks english as their first language.

He says what others think and don't have the nerve to say. When he sees over confidence or arrogance he says so and if these young people were to take that advice to heart it may extend their careers if they get one.

We all must agree that arrogance can ruin these starts. I notice that someone who is humble is a quality that Simon respects.

I find that he is much kinder. The time that truly offended me was back a few seasons ago when he referenced someones weight and I was touched by the way the young women handled it as well as the humility that we saw from Simon in apologizing.

Now Paula is really drving me crazy this year. I can see that her one hit song has given her much confidence and too much air time.

I think that she and Randy have been rude to Simon this season and I don't think either of them would be where they are now without these past years with Simon.

In my opinion.

Let's face it....Discussions like this 'sell' the show to the public..Of course, he's a jerk. Contoversy means more money in his pocket.
No one has the right to degrade anyone...constructive critisism is one thing...he crosses the line!!!!!!

Simon is on American Idol to give his honest opinion. The true "meanie" is Randy Jackson booing Simon when he is being introduced. Why isn't he (Randy) told how mean and childish it is. Let's focus on the talent and let America vote and the judges give opinions.

I'm a huge fan of American Idol....and yes sometime Simon can be Strict ! BUT the contestsants are there to WIN a career in music and to be the BEST ! and who's the best to teach them....well Simon it is !!!

He want's to bring out the best from each and everyone of them. I definitely respect his "honesty" !

What he's telling them, they should really take it seriously and work on it, he's there to help...not to be meen. I find he's the only one that realy say what they need to improve.

And did you people notice, that the contestants, realy beleive in him when he's saying "That was the best perfomants" ! just look in their eyes...you'll see that they just sparckle with proud...so their next perfomance, they'll work even harder !! This is what American Idol is all about .... bringing out the best in them !

Alot of people are booing you !!! it's just that they dont know what a hard job this is....you have to be true to yourself and continue doing a great job !!!

Sinding my positive thinking from New Brunswick Canada.

PS. Please dont mind my spelling, I'm a pure french that is doing her best !!

My God bless you all !!!!

Simon acts that he is very bored with his job. Very rude to the contestants and the other judges. I wish I could vote him off the show.

Simon is a HOTTIE!!!!!!!

He just tells it like it is, and that's how it should be.

Love him, love him, love him!

Simon is rude and tactless. Degrading a person alone or in front of others is showing absolutely no respect for that person. There is such a thing as constructive criticism and on rare occasions Simon uses it. It's all in the words chosen and the tone and inflection used. I would think being an Englishman he would have better command of the English language, but like his clothing, he only has a few choices. Oops, I believe I was just now rude and tactless. See how unnecessary that was. I could have just said he doesn't know how to speak to people. I guarantee that most of the contestants have listened to and used Paula's and Randy's criticism in a positive way as apposed to just tuning out what Cowell has to say. I wish we could vote off judges because I would have had him gone after the first season.
Hasn't anyone noticed how thin skinned he is when he thinks someone is being rude to him? I say if you're going to dish it out then expect people to come to their own defense.

It's just plain raw honesty and personal style. More often than not, his comments jibe with mine though I would probably convey them differently. But see how the contestants, including those that openly defy him, eagerly wait for his comments on their performance and then go bonkers when he says something positive. To me that says a whole lot about the value the AI contestants put on Simon's opinions. But his style will not sit well with you, Ellen, simply because you and Simon have different personalities and style. Be that as it may, I love you both. Honest.

more people should be as open and honest as simon is...he's refreshing to watch

Simon is honest and doesn't sugar coat his comments. He is only trying to help the contestants improve themselves and see their faults. Yes, he can be harsh at times, but this is real and if you want it bad enough, you will listen and grow with it. You never know, you might be the next American Idol.
Elizabeth Rickrode

Not at all. Simon can be likened to a very strict mentor who only wants to bring out the best from the AI contestants.

Once in my career life I was a trainee and the best lessons that I learned are from the trainor/mentor who is very strict and brutally frank like Simon. The AI contestants should thank him the way he is. They should listen and understand carefully the words that come out from his mouth - such words are demeaning sometimes but they are meant to challenge and encourage the contestants to do better.

Simon's role in AI is not easy. It takes him a lot of courage to do his job as he consistently ends up to be the most hated and "boooed" person on earth during each AI season. Will you feel happy if you are in Simon's shoes? Definitely, NO!!

Feedbacks come in various ways some are subtle, some are politely spoken and some are too harsh to handle depending on the person giving them. So everyone should understand this to better prepare him receive feedbacks no matter what method these are given.

I really don't think Simon is a meanie. I really think he means well, if they were all as good as they think they are there wouldn't be a show. I like Simon and usually agree with him. That's it.

i think simon is WAYY to harshh i mean calling people useless has nothing to do with singing its just PLAIN MEAN! if he doesnt like the performance, he should just say he doesnt like it and leave it at that.

I have always felt that Simon's comments were more
along the lines of "mentoring" the idols even though they were "harsh" at times. However this
season, I feel his comments are much more harsh and almost become too much like a personal attack to some of the contestants.

Simon just bought a million dollar car and he is
being critisized for it. All I say is good for
him, if you got it, enjoy it! He needs to get
Leona Lewis on your show Ellen, she is fantastic.
That's Simon's new discovery from Britain.

I definitely respect his "honesty" (alias meanness). I thing we all could learn from him. Imagine being honest with everything and everyone;
-Yes, that dress does make you look fat
-Um, do loose the hair piece, your 70 and look it
-Yes officer I know why you are giving me a ticket, but to chase me down in your patrol car because you weigh 300 lbs and your eating two donuts is over kill because I jaywalking and on crutches. Call Jenny Craig!
The world would be so much better with more people like Simon

I have always felt he is really out of line. There is a difference between a reality check and just plain verbal abuse. I think Simon crosses the line.

Hi Ellen,
I don't really think its meaness that we're seeing...I personaly think he is sick of Paula and Ryan. He seems short tempered and rude towards them and check out some of the dirty looks he gives them when he thinks the camera isn't on him.
Can we see more of your "MaMa" this season?
I love your MaMa!

I think he just says what he truly thinks, and I usually agree with him 9 out of 10 times. I like simon.

SIMON JUST TELLS THE TRUTH. IT WILL NOT BE AN AMERICAN IDOL WITHOUT SIMON.!!!!!!!!!!!!

No, Simon just likes to tell the honest truth. He gets it right most of the time, and even when he predicts things he gets it correct.

Like how Carrie would sell the most records out of all the idols, and she has.

He's honest, and you need someone like that on the show.

There's no point in having Paula on the show because she just repeats everythin gRandy says in a different way.

I think Simon looks and acts BORED! Even when he says something nice (which is not very often) he acts like he could care less!! Not sure what's up with him this season????

Once the initial discomfort of a “mean” personality has been well established, “meaner” really imply very much depth of character.

Simon is always going to be Simon, but many times his opinion is the most gifted of them all.

I really value what Simon brings to the show. I think he says what needs to be said.Sometimes you have to be cruel to be kind. I feel his comments are said that way to help the contestants remember them. And if they follow his words they will be better! Ellen you are so wonderful!

Ya, Simon is trying to be the cool bad boy,oups man. Just let it go its his money maker and the people know there in for the good & bad.

Simon is Simon.

I've pretty much always agreed with Simon. And if he was as nice as Randy and Paula, then it wouldn't make for good TV. I'd rather have brash Simon than Paula who fawns over each contestant and gushes how much of a "fan" she is of theirs.
And ohmygoodness if Randy says "dawg" one more time, I'm gonna hit the TV with the remote.

And what does "good lookin' out" mean anyway?

I usually agree with Simon, but his delivery could be a bit more tactful. You can be honest without being hurtful. His comments would not motivate me.

I think simon can be a little harsh, but he's saying what other people are afraid to say. I think his comments are only for them to know what to improve =)

I think if it wasn't for Simon that show would not be real. He is as real as you are on your show. If you don't want the truth than Simon is not the person to ask.

Although Simon is bang on with his judgement, his delivery is straight forward and sometimes crude, similar to a slap in the face.
I do prefer him to Paula, who when someone underpreforms says they looked great.
If I were to be standing up singing and someone said they liked my shoes as a critique of my abilities...I would find this far more insulting as far as I am concerned.
Randy has a mix of both...straightforward with kindness.
That's what makes great tv...:))

Please put the lion video from March 14 on the website. It was so wonderful and I can't find it on utube. Thank you!!

I LOVE SIMON!!! HE IS SO SEXY!!!
LOVE, BOBBY B