Blunt talk on TV: Will Simon Cowell and his frank style be missed after his exit from American Idol?

May 27, 2010

The Wednesday night tribute to departing Idol judge Simon Cowell, even as Lee DeWyze beat out Crystal Bowersox, was a reminder of his impact on American TV.

What do you think of such blunt criticism on contest shows?

Does brutal honesty help contestants?

Or does a softer touch work better?