The X-Factor/Pop Idol

[The Dark Lord]

Are shows like the X-Factor and Pop Idol exploitative and cruel, or are they just good television. Also does anyone have the right to bash shows that are so popular, just because they don't like the format?

[Lights]

It's quite natural for people to condemn something they don't have or like. That doesn't go to say they're right though.
I think it can go too far when children come into the equation because they're premature for fame. It's fine with adults though. Most of them are mature enough to handle the experience.

[INFERNO]

Are shows like the X-Factor and Pop Idol exploitative and cruel, or are they just good television.

I assume those involve adults only and are like American Idol, America's Got Talent, etc... . In that case, I don't care for it because the people are often not that great but it seems to be a big hit. Those aren't cruel or whatever. If X-Factor and Pop Idol are different though, then I may have different views.


Also does anyone have the right to bash shows that are so popular, just because they don't like the format?

Freedom of Expression in the Charter, First Amendment in the Constitution, UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights Article 19, etc... all allow it. There are some controversial limits though, such as hate crimes and slander. If you don't do these and similar ones, you're in the clear.