Which statment is the correct verb form and verb tense and why
8a. Since American Idol premiered on television, many talented contestants have appeared on the show.
8b. Since American Idol premiered on television, many talented contestants appeared on the show.
I think the correct verb form is :
8a. Since American Idol premiered on television, many talented contestants have appeared on the show.
The core meaning of have is: a verb indicating that somebody possesses something, either materially or as a characteristic or attribute.