It’s big news that FOX’s juggernaut “American Idol,” is suffering its lowest ratings ever. But now show producers may be looking to shake things up with the cast to get people interested again. Rumors are buzzing that the show’s execs recently conducted an impromptu online market research survey, and one place they’re looking for input for improvement is the show’s hyperactive host, Ryan Seacrest.

An online market research survey was issued last week and, while the suits behind the show probe every aspect of the broadcast, there is a noticeable focus on “Idol” host Ryan Seacrest.

While all of the main players were included in the question, “How important are each of the following people to your overall enjoyment of ‘American Idol’?” the survey asks participants to weigh in on two extra statements: “I like the interaction between Ryan and the contestants” and “I like the interaction between the judges and Ryan.”

The extra focus has some wondering whether a hosting change might be exactly what the show needs. “Ryan is so busy turning himself into a diverse brand, one that has longevity, it wouldn’t come as a surprise to think that he isn’t worried about his job security with ‘Idol,’” said a source close to Seacrest.

Reps for the “Idol” host didn’t comment as to whether Seacrest had been approached at all about a changing role on the show, but one “Idol” source did explain the questions, saying that they “fall under the leave-no-stone-unturned category more than anything else.”

[From The Scoop]

While I agree that this season truly sucks monkey balls – I stopped watching after Kristy Lee Cook sand “God Bless the USA” and Chikeze was voted off instead- I don’t think Ryan is the problem. I have a ton of ideas for fixing the show- FOX! Call me! My first order of business would be to get rid of the judges. They suck, and they don’t offer any constructive criticism to the contestants. The worst is Paula – with her inane babbling and her refusal to say anything negative, ever- but they all suck. If anything, Ryan Seacrest, as much as it begrudges me to say so, is the only person on the show who seems to understand why he is there. But make no mistake- I still think he’s obnoxious and slightly insane.

Note by Celebitchy: Ryan made it a point last night to say that Paula will not be leaving the show. In the clip below he says “Last night the judges were thrown a curveball on the air… it sparked a lot of gossip about Paula. I read some of this online this morning. Just for the record. The rumors are not true, she’s part of our family and we love her.”

That’s funny, because I thought the rumors were that the show was scripted, not that Paula was getting the axe for judging a song before it happened.