American Idol is a singing competition show that premiered in 2002 and became a greater success than anyone could’ve anticipated. The magic the original three judgesSimon Cowell, Paula Abdul, and Randy Jacksonbrought was a highlight of earlier seasons. With Simon’s scathing remarks, Paula’s gentleness (unless she’s bickering with Simon), and Randy’s iconic catchphrases (“It’s a no from me, dog.”), millions of Americans loved tuning in.