A More Mature Ryan Seacrest?

So LAist (ok, this poster in particular) likes American Idol. We’ve been watching closely this season because we actually like some of the singers. They’re kinda good (except that Bucky guy who really has to go tonight). Now, will we ever buy a record? Probably not, but for mindless entertainment in the background while cooking dinner, it’s the best damn thing on TV.

We detected something different while watching last night’s ode to the ‘50s with coach Barry Manilow. (Yes, that Barry Manilow.) There was something different about host Ryan Seacrest. We’ve noticed that he’s wearing more suits this season, which is fine, but it was something more subtle. We couldn’t pinpoint it at first. And then it hit us at the show’s sign off. Seacrest said “good night” (or something like that) to the audience instead of his patented, “Seacrest Out!”

What is that? A new, more mature Ryan Seacrest? But why? Sure, he’s past 30 and now doing E! Television, radio et al, but why grow up? Simon Cowell still wears those too-tight T-shirts every night; Randy still uses the “dawg” in every sentence; and Paula, well she’s still fake sweet and wacky self. Ryan, baby, no matter how often we poked fun of you, your hair, your height (and wow standing next to contestant Elliot Yamin made you look Kobe size – is he that short??) – it’s all because we love you.

Bring back the Cheesecrest! If need be, get Brian Dunkleman back to co-host with you. He’s probably not doing anything right now.