Paula Abdul Leaves American Idol

Paula Abdul announces on Twitter her exit from American Idol after 8 years. Thanking her fans for all the love and support (typical Paula) she blames her contract negotiations as the underlying reason for her exit.

American Idol Negotiates Paula Abdul Out the Door

Last year was a pivotal year as American Idol brought in a 4^th judge Kara DioGuardi as a means of bringing Paula in line or out the door. It was obvious from the start that this mix of another female judge was irratating Paula. It was also very clear because of time overruns that this would be changed this next year.

Paula Abdul has Been With Idol Since the Beginning

Paula Abdul, along with Simon Cowell and Randy Jackson, was an original judge and will leave after being thrust back into the limelight after her career as a singer dancer ended.

Her association with American Idol has been good on both sides. Judging from her twitter account AI tried to negotiate a fair contract, but with Ryan Seacrest just having signed a $45 million dollar three-year contract, those negotiations broke down.

Kara DioGuardi is the New Judge on American Idol

Kara is a good choice and without Paula it should help her be more comfortable on the panel. She, Kara, was definitely odd woman out last year. I also happen to think that she adds more depth to the panel and is not the proverbial sweet everything is ok judge. Kara can be tough when she needs to. I believe from insiders of Paula and Simon not talking with Kara off screen is probably true.

I look forward to seeing Kara next season and what she will bring to the program.

American Idol Overshadows the Judges

I believe that the format of the show and the live musical entertainment gives the American audience a relief from cop and news shows. It enables us to experience the rise from obscurity to stardom. It's the American dream and is a modern day adaptation of the old "Ed Sullivan Show".

American Idol has found the formula for prime time success and has captured the attention of a recession-worn audience by providing first class unknown talent to the country.

American Idol enters its ninth season as the uncontested number one reality show. Coupled with the Ford Motor Company and Coca Cola has established it's brand as the first All-American mom's apple pie show since Ozzie and Harriet brought us Ricky Nelson.

Good Luck Paula and welcome Kara.