Fox confirms Paula Abdul is leaving 'American Idol'
Paula Abdul has announced on her Twitter feed, and Fox has confirmed, that she will not return to American Idol for another season. Abdul gave notice through proper channels before posting on Twitter, according to a Fox spokesperson. A source familiar with the negotiation says Abdul walked away from a 30 percent raise and an eight-figure deal. Below is the full statement from Abdul:
“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 1 become an international phenomenon. What I want to say most, is how much I appreciate the undying support and enormous love that you have showered upon me. It truly has been breathtaking, especially over the past month. I do without any doubt have the BEST fans in the entire world and I love you all.”
The full statement from Fox:
“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.”
Fellow judge Randy Jackson said he was “shocked” by the news, and Idol host Ryan Seacrest posted a response on Twitter saying he is “shocked and saddened.” Kara Dioguardi and Simon Cowell — who has said in the past that he does not want to do Idol without Abdul — are not commenting.
(Reporting by Lynette Rice and Michael Slezak)
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