What's Gotten Into American Idol?

American Idol has been on the air for eleven years now. Some would say it has dragged on long enough with the new similar shows “The X Factor” and “The Voice”. These newer singing competitions seem to be more focused on giving ‘nobodies’ the chance to change their lives and make something of themselves.  Has American Idol changed from a singing competition to some sort of talk-show? Is the show focusing too much on the quirky people who audition instead of the talent that’s out there?