What is it about American Idol that is so ridiculously entertaining? Is it the seemingly endless parade of deluded, often frightening people who think they can sing? (Please, please let it be true that some of these whack-jobs are actors.) The shameless but effective pandering that makes you root for singers like the one with the disabled little girl? (Cruel, cruel world!) The incomparable looks that cross Simon Cowell's face? (You just know he's thinking, "My god, why must I sit here and endure these sad, pathetic Americans? Oh, right, the millions and millions of dollars. Carry on, then.")

This is only the second season we've watched, but we're completely hooked. I wish I could explain why.