American Idol 'American Idol' producer says calling the show racist is "idiotic" 03/27/2007 Of all the words critics could use to describe American Idol, executive producer Nigel Lythgoe said racist isn't one of them. Read More RELATED NEWS Chris Sligh, former 'American Idol' finalist, reveals he is battling Covid-19 and pneumoniaJordin Sparks and husband Dana Isaiah welcome first child togetherJordin Sparks "in shock" and "numb" following deaths of four loved ones in a week TAGS: American Idol Antonella Barba Fantasia Barrino Ruben Studdard Frenchie Davis Rosie O'Donnell