Relief efforts trump ‘American Idol’ auditions in Memphis

Fox publicist Alex Gillespie said the auditions planned at the FedEx Forum won’t be rescheduled so the city “can focus public safety efforts on the victims.”

Auditions are still scheduled for Denver on Sept. 11 and Chicago on Sept. 16.

Paul Sloan, vice president of creative services at local Fox affiliate WHBQ-TV, said producers made the decision Thursday afternoon. He said he raised the idea of coordinating the auditions with a fundraiser for victims, but it was ruled out.

“Obviously we’re disappointed like everyone is,” Sloan told The Commercial Appeal. “But I think everyone would agree that we didn’t want to do some happy ‘Hey look ‘American Idol’ has come to town!’ while covering hurricane victims.”

City officials estimate more than 10,000 Katrina evacuees are in the Memphis area, staying at hotels or with friends or relatives.

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