American Duos musical number, only to have Nigel, no longer having to force them through the competition, calling it one of the worst performances he ever saw. Star James Roday, who plays Shawn Spencer, co-wrote this episode. It is a send up of "American Idol", and Tim Curry plays the Simon Cowell-esque British judge Nigel St. Nigel. Gina Gershon plays Emilina Saffron, who is a caricature of Paula Abdul. In the episode, Gus says (of Randy Jackson), "That guy's not black, he's Latino. There's a difference," comparing Jackson and the third "Duos" judge, Zapato. According to Roday, "American Duos" has the highest
American Idol has been a cause of resentment for some in the industry. LeAnn Rimes, commenting on Carrie Underwood winning Best Female Artist in Country Music Awards over Faith Hill in 2006, said that "Carrie has not paid her dues long enough to fully deserve that award". It is a common theme that has been echoed by many others. Elton John, who had appeared as a mentor in the show but turned down an offer to be a judge on "American Idol", commenting on talent shows in general, said that "there have been some good acts but the only way to sustain