So Tuesday marks the start of the big "Idol Gives Back" extravaganza. It's basically a two-night star-studded event designed to raise money for poverty-stricken regions of the U.S. and Africa.
Tuesday, the top six contestants will perform as usual. For every vote cast, sponsors will make a donation to the Charity Projects Entertainment Fund. Wednesday, the two-hour results show will feature extra celebrity performances. Viewers on that night, too, can make donations via phone or the donation Web site.
From a popular culture standpoint, I think the whole thing is really fascinating...and not only because it marks the first time a U.S. reality TV show has entered the realm of major fundraising.
Today, I interviewed a communication professor from Columbus State University for an upcoming article on the relationship between philanthropy and reality TV, and he brought up an interesting point that this week's episodes will bring in viewers who aren't necessarily hardcore AI fans.
In other words, people with a passion for charitable giving, or with an interest in one of the groups the episode is designed to assist. And, since tomorrow night's votes equal donations, those viewers will be more likely to vote...even if they've never seen the show before.
The bottom line? Tuesday's theme -- inspirational songs -- might make for a surprise elimination.
What do you think? Will AI pull in more votes than usual because the proceeds go to charity? And if so, how will that affect the six remaining contestants?
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