Paula Abdul Leaving American Idol

It has been reported that judge Paula Abdul is leaving Fox's popular show, American Idol. She reportedly wanted near $20 million but rejected a 30% raise that would have put her salary in the eight figures range. Abdul has stated on her Twitter, "With sadness in my heart, I've decided not to return." She has also expressed her sadness for the show that she helped create a national phenomenon. Her manager, David Sonenberg recently said, "Very sadly, it does not appear that she's going to be back on Idol."

This announcement comes several days after the news of Kara DioGuardi returning to the show was released. Some saw this move coming last year after DioGuardi joined the popular 3 member judge panel. There were speculations that Fox was looking to replace Abdul and DioGuardi was the likely replacement.

American Idol is the number 1 rated show in America and Paula along with fellow judges, Simon and Randy, have become some of the more popular celebrities on television. Many fans have fallen in love with Abdul over the past eight seasons, as she was the kind sweet natured women who was always uplifting to many contestants.

I feel this show will not be the same without Paula being next to Simon and Randy. Some of the best highlights are the spats between her and Simon and provide for great entertainment. Also, Paula appeared on camera numerous times seemingly under the influence of some sort of substance, leading to her to be the butt of jokes by late night talk show hosts. I do see the overall tone of the show shifting to a more critical harsher mode with Paula gone but in all reality, American Idol will be fine and continue to be the highest rated show in America and continue to rake in the cash. Yes, there are probably many fans of the show who are also Paula Abdul fans and are upset about the recent news, but I don't see these fans boycotting the show or anything just because one judge is gone. I personally think she may have got a little greedy here but I don't exactly know the details of the negotiations between Fox and Abdul. So, farewell Paula, you and your intoxicated, fun loving advice will be missed on the show that you helped build into an empire, but I won't be losing any sleep over it.

Source: http://blogs.courant.com/roger_catlin_tv_eye/2009/08/paula-abdul-quits-american-ido.html