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‘Idol’ Producer Defends Stefani, Sanjaya

Mar 29, 2007  •  Post A Comment

‘Sanjaya Watch’ continues after this week’s performances as “American Idol” cast mates said goodbye to Chris Sligh. In this week’s Backlot Talk, executive producer Ken Warwick gives his two cents on why Chris went out the door, and puts an end to rumors that Gwen Stefani wanted to drain Mr. Malakar’s take on her song “Bathwater.”

“Absolute rubbish,” Mr. Warwick said. “There have been too many people saying anything that’s going to get them noticed I’m afraid.”

Attention is perhaps something Chris Sligh would’ve liked a lack of while performing “Every Little Thing She Does is Magic.” Mr. Warwick attributed his downfall to a lack of rhythm that he’s displayed throughout the competition.

“Police stuff is difficult to sing,” he said. “And if you’re not right in the pocket with the actual rhythm of the song, you’ve had it; and he couldn’t find it all week.”

Tony Bennett is next week’s guest — bringing almost 80 years of life experience to the contestants as they try their vocal chords at classic and swing jazz-style tunes.

“The experience that he’s going to be able to impart on the kids — with the old swing classics they’re going to be singing this week — he’s going to be invaluable,” said Mr. Warwick.

To listen to the full interview, go to TVWeek.com’s Backlot Talk for the audio podcast and transcript.