A 19th Century American Supreme Court Chief Justice Charles Evans Hughes once offered a quote that resonates with Ashley Rodriguez’s current situation. “The higher you’ve climbed the greater the fall. Never speak of the end of a period for you are always at the beginning of a new one.” As Rodriguez progressed through the rounds of American Idol, the nation’s most watched entertainment television program for aspiring musicians and singers, she demonstrated considerable skill. Last week, she did not advance past the competition, eliminated among a talented group of young performers. Nevertheless, her efforts were commendable. She performed with dedication and intensity, never phoning in her contribution. American Idol operates according to its own standards. Simon Cowel, the show’s primary architect, remains characteristically himself in all his interactions, including those with Rodriguez. We find Cowel’s approach and his materialistic focus on contestants objectionable, and we believe he treated Rodriguez unfairly. That said, we know Rodriguez personally. This setback does not represent an ending. Rather, it marks a beginning. She possesses an indomitable spirit and genuine talent that continues to develop as she enters adulthood. This talented, beautiful young woman from Chelsea has a bright future ahead. We are disappointed by the American Idol result, but we are confident Rodriguez will achieve significant success as a performer.
Ashley Rodrigeuz
