‘Idol’ musings on Fox’s enduring hit show

Five become four as “American Idol” (8 p.m., Fox) marches towards its finale. And for those of you who can’t spend enough “Idol” moments, there is the much-ballyhooed expose “Fallen Idol” on “Primetime Live” (9 p.m., ABC).

The folks at ABC News have been very hush-hush about the contents of this tell-all, but it appears to be about the judges and their lack of objectivity. Shocking! Anyone who follows this addictive popularity contest can see how “Idol” favors some talents and ignores others. Randy and Paula encourage Bo Bice, while Simon treats Scott Savol as if the would-be idol is a minor functionary at the Department of Motor Vehicles.

But as much as the judges try to slant things, the home audience still decides. And for reasons beyond reason, millions have decided that Scott and Anthony belonged in the top five.

Last year, Fantasia was clearly the judges’ favorite, but she was also clearly the most talented. And I always thought that the judges’ encouragement would backfire and deny Fantasia the prize. Who knows, maybe millions are voting for Scott just to annoy Simon.

And speaking of last year, whatever happened to that spunky little Diana DeGarmo? Why hasn’t that Georgia peach been showcased like 2003’s runner-up, Clay Aiken? Inquiring minds want to know.

It remains to be seen if “Fallen Idol” will besmirch the reputation of the popular show. But it is certainly another step on the path to ridiculous irrelevance for the “news” portion of TV news magazines.

Tonight’s other highlights

  • A pop psychologist discusses abusive relationships on “A Dr. Phil Primetime Special: Escaping Danger” (7 p.m., CBS).
  • Contagious suspicions grow deadly on “Lost” (7 p.m., ABC).
  • Massey searches for his kidnapped stepson on “Revelations” (8 p.m., NBC). Fred Durst guest stars as a satanic henchman.
  • Jack’s grave secret on “Alias” (8 p.m., ABC).
  • The sitcom/talk-show comedy “The Kumars at No. 42” (8:40 p.m., BBC America) enters a second season.
  • Danny needs help on “CSI: NY” (9 p.m., CBS).