Paula Abdul Tears Up Reading Melinda Doolittle Blog
Paula Abdul reacted to a blog by ‘American Idol’ alum Melinda Doolittle regarding Paula’s departure from the hit FOX show. “Thank you for being the heart of the show that changed my life,” Doolittle wrote at mdoolittlesblog.blogspot.com. “Thank you for understanding. Thank you for celebrating with me and crying with me. Thank you for being there.”
Abdul wrote on her Twitter (@PaulaAbdul) earlier today:
Melinda, what you posted about me on your blog mdoolittlesblog.blog… brought me to tears, which my make-up artist didn’t appreciate since I was seconds away from filming a scene on the TV show Drop Dead Diva, having said that I soo appreciate your reflection of your experience with me and paying me such honor & respect. I love you Melinda and I am so proud of what you are achieving!
Ryan Seacrest Comments On Paula Abdul’s ‘Idol’ Departure
August 5, 2009 - Ryan Seacrest commented on Paula Abdul’s announcement that she won’t be returning to ‘American Idol’ on his KIIS FM morning show in Los Angeles earlier today, telling listeners he doesn’t believe her departure is a publicity stunt. “As far as I know, it’s real,” he said. “Obviously, she has her reasons for doing it, and if she didn’t feel like she was getting what she needed, then I understand that, too.”
The New York Times reports that the 47-year-old had wanted $20 million to sign a multi-year deal to continue her role as a judge on the FOX hit show, while producers had “only” offered over $10 million.
Audio of what Ryan had to say at kiisfm.com has since been removed.
Paula Abdul: I’ve Decided Not To Return To ‘American Idol’
August 4, 2009 - Paula Abdul just updated fans on her status at ‘American Idol’ on her Twitter (@PaulaAbdul), announcing that she’ll be leaving the hit FOX reality singing competition as a judge. Abdul writes:
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.
Update: FOX television issued the following statement regarding Paula’s departure:
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.
