“American Idol” contestant Matthew Farmer admitted on Thursday that he lied about his military service during his audition, which aired during Wednesday night’s auditions episode.
In the episode, Farmer claimed he was injured in combat by an improvised explosive device (IED) in Iraq, a story that was disputed by several of his fellow soldiers who wrote to StolenValor.com.
These fellow soldiers claimed Farmer was not injured during combat, but from an explosion caused by a forbidden mixture of acne medication and alcohol.
Farmer claimed he asked “Idol” producers not to air anything he had said about his military service and to only focus on him and his daughter, who stood by his side while he auditioned.
Farmer’s admission posted on the Guardians of Valor website on Thursday.
Personal Take
There’s probably more to this story, but seriously, is the fact that a reality show contestant has lied all that surprising?
During last year’s “America’s Got Talent,” contestant Timothy Poe lied about serving in the military and was quickly dismissed from the competition.
When it comes to “reality” shows, most of what the audience sees is untruthful, ergo, a lie.
These shows constantly present their contestants as undiscovered amateurs, while the truth of the matter is that most of them are seasoned professionals.
“American Idol” and “America’s Got Talent” are probably the most adept at bending the perception of what’s real and truthful and what’s not.
And that’s just the tip of what’s not real on “reality” shows.
Through the power of editing, the show’s producers are able to stretch, piece together and create any scenario they want the audience to see.
Want to make Nicki Minaj seem cute and cuddly? Show her posing with a cute three-year-old daughter of an “Idol” hopeful.
Want to make host Ryan Seacrest seem like an Everyday Joe? Show him pulling up to the Queen Mary in a Ford. (Yeah, like Seacrest really drives a Ford.)
With “American Idol” still in its audition episodes, it’s evident the show is sinking and on its last legs.
The judging panel dynamics of Minaj, Mariah Carey, Keith Urban and Randy Jackson isn’t working. Take Minaj out of the mix and the panel would be a lot more credible.
In the name of duty, this critic will stick with “American Idol” until it takes its last breath—which hopefully is sooner than later.
“American Idol” airs on Wednesday and Thursday nights at 7 p.m. on Fox 13 in Provo.
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