Paula Abdul has said she is leaving “American Idol,” producers of the hit reality competition also confirmed her departure and FOX executives said Thursday that they are searching for her replacement – but could the choreographer-turned-pop star be back at the judge’s table come Season 9?
According to TMZ, numerous “Idol” insiders claimed there is the possibility of Paula’s return, in fact, the Web site even said there’s “better than a good chance” that fans will see the always-encouraging Paula rooting on singing hopefuls next season.
Paula was caught at JFK airport in New York by TMZ and said, “It’s been overwhelming what’s going on right now, so I have to really carefully think about everything.”
She also revealed she’s been in touch with fellow “Idol” judge Simon Cowell.
”[We talk] all the time. And he misses me already,” she said.
As for news that she’s heading to FOX’s “So You Think You Can Dance,” Paula had yet to receive a call – but said she’s a big fan of the series.
“I didn’t know I was being given and offer,” Paula explained. “I love the show. I think its a wonderful show. I don’t know what’s going to happen.”
Nigel Lythgoe, former “Idol” executive producer and current judge and executive producer on “SYTYCD,” told reporters at the FOX Television Critics Association panel discussion on Thursday morning that he’s not entirely sure where Paula will end up.
“I still don’t know that she’s gonna leave ‘Idol.’” he said. “But until ‘Idol’ goes on the air, there’s always opportunities for re-negotiations, who knows what might happen.”
Paula’s long-term future might be unclear, but a rep for the cable channel Lifetime confirmed to Access Hollywood that Paula is in Atlanta today taping her second guest spot for the finale of “Drop Dead Diva.” The episode, where Paula plays a judge in a dream sequence, is slated to air on October 11.
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