Paula Abdul has announced via Twitter that she will not return to "American Idol." The reason, of course, is cash.
Fellow judge Simon Cowell and host Ryan Seacrest both pull down huge salaries for appearing on "Idol" (a reported $45 million per year for Cowell, $10 million per year for Seacrest, plus additional money for merchandising rights). According to The Washington Post, Abdul was making $4 million a year (The New York Times reports $2 million per year, but in light of recent events, we're inclined to go with The Post for now). In contract negotiations, Abdul had requested a raise to $20 million per year. She later reduced her demand to $12 million, but was offered $5.6 million.
That's million, people. Sure, there's probably a pride issue involved, but seriously. What is Paula Abdul going to do now to make that kind of money and get that kind of exposure? There are reports she will become a judge on "So You Think You Can Dance," (permanent judge or guest judge??) which is a popular show, but no "Idol." Plus, how could her low-key kind of crazy compete with Mary Murphy's in-your-face-screaming crazy on SYTYCD?
On the other hand, why is Fox being so stingy? They have the most popular TV show in the nation (thanks in some part to the relationship between Paula and Simon) and are making money hand over fist. As dizzy and incomprehensible as Abdul is, fans like her.
Will you keep watching the show?
Brooke Cain isn't always proud of the number of hours she logs in front of the TV, but her loss of brain cells can be your gain. From reality shows to sitcoms to the more serious stuff, Brooke keeps her DVR smoking so that she can help keep you in the know. Brooke also tweets for Happiness is a Warm TV (you can follow 
Comments
Maybe
Wed, 08/05/2009 - 12:12 — bobbucyIt will depend upon the talent that turns up. I watched more this year because I thought that the finalists had talent and it was interesting. I think that Paula's decision is all about ego and that she will live to regret it, because outside of Idol, her career is pretty much done. And I think that Kara is actually a very good judge. She has done everything that there is to do in the music business, and her assessment of talent is usually well reasoned. Paula's comments tend to be more emotional and can therefore sometimes be out in left field.
probably not
Wed, 08/05/2009 - 11:58 — kimbaileywilliamsonI will miss Paula, even though she was ditzy most of the time I did appreciate her positive comments to the contestants, she was encouraging unlike the other judges. I really didn't like Kara as a judge.
Nooooo
Wed, 08/05/2009 - 11:13 — BullogAmerican Idol can't be as good as before without Paula, but, yeah, I'll keep waiting for the next season.