Paula Abdul Quits American Idol

Sad news for American Idol fans, and especially Paula Abdul fans…

After weeks of speculations and rumors, the singer announced Tuesday that she is leaving her judge seat on American Idol, the show that has been a part of her life for the last eight seasons.

47-year-old Abdul wrote the sad news on her Twitter account, saying, “With sadness in my heart, I’ve decided not to return to Idol. I’ll miss nurturing all the new talent, but most of all being a part of a show that I helped from day one become an international phenomenon.” She did not give any reason about her departure, but added, “What I want to say most, is how much I appreciate the undying support and enormous love that you have showered upon me. I do, without any doubt, have the BEST fans in the entire world and I love you all.”

Abdul’s announcement came several days after Kara DioGuardi confirmed her return for a second season on the popular singing contest judging panel, and just two days before the auditions for ninth season started. With Abdul leaving the show, the number of judges now returns to three, with Simon Cowell and Randy Jackson joined by Kara DioGuardi.

Fox and the show’s producers; FremantleMedia North America and 19 Entertainment said in a joint statement that they were “saddened” that Abdul would not be returning to the show as she had been “an important part of the ‘American Idol’ family over the last eight seasons.” They also said, “While Paula will not be continuing with us, she’s a tremendous talent and we wish her the best.”

Abdul’s future with the show had been unclear since her contract ended after the eighth season. Idol producers renewed host Ryan Seacrest’s contract last month for three years for a whopping $15 million, but they said nothing about Abdul’s contract.

In a July interview, the Dance Like There’s No Tomorrow singer said that she had been invited to stay with Idol as long as the show lasted and that she was optimistic that she would be able to negotiate a new contract. She also emphasized, the invitation to come back was subject to agreement on the details of a new deal. But then Abdul’s talent manager said that she was upset about not having received a new proposal and might leave the show.

Reports speculated that she was seeking a hefty pay raise while other reports suggested she was unhappy with the way she was being treated. No matter what’s the reason behind her departure, Paula Abdul, the kind-hearted judge will be missed.

[ via Yahoo! News ]

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