It’s official: Paula Abdul is really leaving American Idol. Fans first got wind of it when she Twittered at 10:15 pm ET (click on the photo for a larger view):
Later on, Fox confirms that Paula did indeed decide to leave the show.
Paula Abdul has been an important part of the American Idol family over the last eight seasons and we are saddened that she has decided not to return to the show. While Paula will not be continuing with us, she’s a tremendous talent and we wish her the best.”
The Entertainment Weekly article and Paula’s Twitter account doesn’t say why she decided not to return, but I’m guessing it has to do with the fact that she’s not going to get paid as much as she’d hoped. If that’s the case, then I think Paula’s departure from the show is a big mistake. Sure, she definitely complements Simon Cowell’s harsh tongue and her loopy moments were good for the lulz, but the show is far bigger than she is and it will survive without her. It shouldn’t be that difficult to replace Paula. Not to mention that I don’t think there’s another show or endeavor that will give her as much exposure as Idol.
Oh well. The auditions for the new Idol judge should be interesting, at the least!
