‘Talent’ judge is too harsh with criticism

If Tuesday’s two-hour premiere of “America’s Got Talent” is any clue of what’s to come I’m frightened, and perhaps the show’s name should be changed.

Everything’s supposedly bigger in Texas, and Tuesday night that meant bigger losers. But was it really necessary for judge Piers Morgan to be so harsh?

Adults should know that their act stinks and I agree that they shouldn’t insult others who truly are talented by wasting the judge’s time. When dealing with children, however, it takes a certain amount of tact to tell a youngster they’re just not ready.

Obviously some children are pushed into trying to be great athletes, singers or dancers to help pad their parents’ bank accounts and buy mommy a new car, as Morgan accused one mother of doing at the premiere.

As the girl’s mother pointed out, with the help of an emotional judge Sharon Osborne, not all child stars are born this way and a child’s dreams shouldn’t be crushed by one British man who has a problem communicating.

Some children are dedicated to what they do because they have a passion for it, and their parents provide support and inspiration.

I was pleased to see Osborne stand up for herself, and for those who Morgan rudely belittled. I’ll also give Morgan some credit for apologizing for his clumsy way of communicating. I do understand that in order to narrow the field and find truly talented people, sometimes harsh words are necessary – just not when it’s a child doing her best.

If you’ve got a talent you want to share with America, the show’s Web site is accepting video submissions. To post your footage, go to www.NBC.com and click on “America’s Got Talent.”

While we’re on the subject of shows that aren’t looking so hot this season, there are a few coming up. A sampling includes NBC’s “Age of Love” where a 31-year-old bachelor will pick the love of his life from a group of 13 women in their 20s, 30s and 40s to see if age really does matter, and Paula Abdul’s new show “Hey Paula” on Bravo.

Be prepared, I think it’s going to be a very long summer.