I haven't thought about this for a few years... But just because I'm not thinking about something, doesn't mean it couldn't exist. I actually think they are at risk because of their immense popularity. In fact, I could think most contestants could be at risk to nutjobs out there. Wow, what a great way to extort money. Grab little Drew and make demands for her release. Kids are abducted every day. There have also been some minor scares in the past on american idol. I do realize it could be a publicity stunt, however it's more likely that the strange requests are a result of idol producers reacting to the current and changing events. After all, they got "mobbed" already. If that happened, their reaction is justified and makes the possibility of it being a stunt seem remote.

Simon needs to know that Melanie Amaro was never heard singing on FOX5 (Las Vegas). Instead we got to watch commercials! It's the only singer we didn't get to hear. Personally, I was looking forward to hearing her.
She shouldn't be sent home when we didn't even get to hear her sing!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The twist eliminating 4 contestants at once by their own mentors repeats this year's UK X Factor. Bringing Melanie back from the brink repeats a theme in last year's UK X Factor. He will want some conflict between judges & some seedy pasts unearthed. All publicity is good publicity & Simon intends to make a Syco Killing.

I thought Simon was a tough guy, a real man! Seems like he only a mouth held up by a sissy!

Anyone who has followed Simon Cowell over the years knows he is a master at publicity. He hasn't gotten where he is by being a run-of-the-mill businessman. This is publicity. Those contestants are already being watched over and guarded whenever they step out the door. And why was he the only one who had to go back and "correct" his mistake this season? Publicity! Everything that man does is planned from day one. And to that I say, "Good for him. He's intelligent, successful, and has created shows both here and in England that are masterful hits. His does what he has to do to make it all work!"

Do what you think is best Simon, and there will be no regrets later.

I think it goes both ways. to protect & for publicity>

I think this is just free publicity and hype for Simon, his team of contestants, and the show. He may or may not be concerned for these girls' safety. Who knows. But one thing for sure, Simon doesn't do anything unless it involves money, himself, money(oh, did I say that already?) And by money, I mean money going into his pockets.

This time I happen to agree with Simon, given the spot light of X Factor... the three need secruity. Good job by Simon!

one other thing i would like to say is simon has enough money if the show works out or not.i think he is concern for them,he's doing the right thing.