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Expect ‘American Idol’ to Stay Strong in Season Five

The fact that Tribune Entertainment will likely confirm a syndication deal for American Idol this week hasn’t diluted the appeal of the series for this season, Media Life writes. The series, which generated its best ratings last year - landing the most-watched program of the season and propelling Fox to its first full-season win in adults 18-49 - is returning for its fifth season next Tuesday, and many media buyers believe it will be as strong as ever.

For example, Shari Anne Brill, vp and director of programming at Carat, is quoted as saying, “Every show starts to slip once it’s in its fifth or sixth season, but I don’t see that happening with ‘Idol.’” And MediaVest’s vp and group research director John Spiropoulos said, “Because last year was strong, it will likely be down. But it will still be very successful.”

Part of the reason media buyers expect the show to remain on top is that popular judge Simon Cowell has signed on for at least four additional seasons.

Even when the show goes up against the Olympics in Feb., it will likely see only a slight dip in ratings, as American Idol viewers are a younger demo than those who tune in to the Winter Games.