American Idol will never be the same again.
Paula Abdul released a statement telling fans that she won't be returning to the hit TV show.
"With sadness in my heart, I've decided not to return to Idol," Paula wrote on her Twitter page on Tuesday. "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 adds: "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."
Paula didn't give a specific reason for her departure, but we all know it was due to contract negotiations. Paula reportedly wanted a lot more money from the network, and they just couldn't come to an agreement.
"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," Fox television says in a statement.
"While Paula will not be continuing with us, she's a tremendous talent and we wish her the best."
Just a few weeks ago Paula's manager said there was no contract on the table from the network and that "sadly" it didn't appear she would be returning. Guess he wasn't kidding! As whacky as she may have been at times, Paula was just as important to the show as Simon.
Do you think American Idol will be the same without her? Who is your favorite judge? Should Paula be replaced? If so, with who?
