Bret Michaels Bringing His Rock Of Love Bus To American Idol?

The rumor mill is swirling with talks that Bret Michaels is a potential replacement for Simon Cowell as judge on American Idol.  While this may seem like an unexpected option, Bret has received a lot of publicity lately in both the reality TV world for winning Celebrity Apprentice and for his health troubles. 

Bret was hospitalized several times between April and May 2010 for an emergency appendectomy, a brain hemorrhage and a minor stroke.  In spite of his health issues, he appeared on the finale of Celebrity Apprentice, on which he beat Holly Robinson Peete for the title.  He also surprised the audience on the American Idol finale, by performing “Every Rose Has Its Thorn” alongside contestant, Casey James.

Does overcoming such obstacles mean Bret Michaels would be a good judge on American Idol?  First things first, he can easily fill the musical credibility void that will be left by Simon’s departure.  Bret has been in the music industry for over 25 years.  He’s not just a singer, but also an accomplished songwriter.  Simon is not a performer, but is a respected music producer and his on-point criticisms are what made him such a venerated voice on the show.  Bret, or any replacement for that matter, would still have to bring honest and useful critiques no matter what his background is.    

I don’t want to take anything away from Randy Jackson, who has had an amazing career as a bassist, singer, and producer, but he’s only one piece of the puzzle.  The judging pool has been diluted over the past couple of seasons with the departure of Paula Abdul and the addition of Kara DioGuardi and Ellen DeGeneres.  While Kara has an impressive songwriting background and Ellen understands what it takes to stand up to the pressure of performing in front of millions, the show needs someone who has recognizable musical credibility.  Bret Michaels has been the frontman of the band, Poison, as well as having his own solo career.  He continues to tour and would be able to relate to the contestants on a different level.   Bret also has experience in the judging department, as he served up criticism on Nashville Star in 2005.    

Does Bret Michaels have too much of a torrid history to fit the squeaky-clean Idol image?  Many are quick to point out his skankier days “riding the bus” if you will, with the cosmetically-enhanced contestants of Rock of Love.  Now, however, Bret is trying his best to become more of a family man with his girlfriend, Kristi Gibson and their two daughters, Raine and Georgia.  American Idol could be the best option to keep him grounded in LA, and away from the groupies.  Besides, don’t forget Simon Cowell isn’t exactly Ward Clever.

There are several other names being tossed around, ranging from Elton John to Howard Stern and the decision probably won’t be made for months.  No matter who is chosen, there will never be a judge quite like Simon Cowell and the show will never be the same without him.  However, the next person to fill that seat should not only know what he/she is talking about, but also must be able to deliver straightforward criticism or else the show will become “dreadful” and “horrific” as Simon would say.