RAVE of the week: Ellen on ‘Idol’

Talk show host Ellen DeGeneres has made an indelible impression since taking Paula Abdul’s judge chair on Fox reality hit “American Idol.” DeGeneres has been her usual fun self on the show, but takes her job seriously, offering critiques when necessary and encouraging others after doing well. Surprisingly, the funny lady has chemistry among brittle British personality Simon Cowell. Abdul’s crazy antics are missed, but DeGeneres’ cool demeanor at the table has been welcome respite to a show that is starting to show its age. Prior to appearing on “Idol,” DeGeneres guest judged on Fox’s “So You Think You Can Dance.” When she appeared there, it seemed as though she only tried to make jokes. However, on “Idol,” DeGeneres will sacrifice a good joke in order to give a well-intentioned review of a contestant’s performance. –MB

WRECK of the week: Tiger Woods

Tiger Woods came out of hiding and broke his silence since several allegations surfaced regarding his philandering ways. Woods’ public apology on Feb. 19 was just further embarrassment for the golf pro, who neither appear remorseful nor seemed interested at all appearing at the news conference. His robotic and monotone delivery of a speech he probably did not even write himself only makes him more of a disgrace. None of Woods’ personal life has anything to do with the great performances on the golf course, but he has a responsibility to himself, his family and young fans everywhere to behave appropriately on and off the course. Woods let everyone down when reports first surfaced about the mistresses and only made it worse with the press conference with his shifty eyes and lack of human emotion. Woods acknowledged that he has spent 45 days in rehab, but it seems like any and all celebrities think rehab is the answer for everything. While truly necessary for most, it still seems like a PR stunt for plenty of others.  Woods needs to reevaluate what is important and pull it together.