We're Not "Mean"

Sez the well-fed Brit producer of the show when asked if "Idol" is too mean (this week's nonstory) to a couple of auditioners: "It was an honest appraisal of that kid." Btw, the kid in question hasn't complained yet. Added Simon, satisfied that the American media is falling right into the marketing plan: "It's s singing contest ... why should I call someone a bush baby? ... There are times I watch it back and say, 'Why did I say that?' "
Simon sez: "On auditions, bad things happen and the audience trusts us to show that."