Paula Abdul Twitters: She’s Leaving Idol

Hmm.. Not sure. I think I’m with you MJ. Sounds like a negotiating ploy to me as well.

I just happened to see that when it happened. I’m not sure if that’s such a good move for Idol. I’m already thinking of not watching next year. This may push me over the edge.

I’d hate to see Paula go. I don’t know how much attention I’ll be paying to next season but I think she belongs on the show. Just pay her the $$$$ already.

I’m sad that she said she’s not coming back. I don’t see how it can be a negotiating ploy, but I do have hope in my heart that it is one.

It may be a ploy but Kara is awful and four is certainly too many so it seems like this was in the cards from the start of AI8 to me.

So after 8 seasons, Paula doesn’t come back, it’s sad but I hope it gives a new life to the panel.
These last years have become hard to watch because of the judges.

UNACCEPTABLE UNACCEPTABLE.

Although this leads me to think that Randy will also be removed after his contract is over, which is good.

But. Still. *fumes*

Why would it not shock me if tomorrow the headlines reads paula signed 3 year deal.

it seems like this was in the cards from the start of AI8 to me

Yeah. I think when they added Kara the thought was definitely in the back of their minds that if 4 judges didn’t work out, they could use her to replace Paula.

MJ, when is the deadline that she has to have her contract signed? Just by the time first judges’ auditions start? And haven’t there been last-second negotiations before?

If this turns out to be true, well I HAVE gotten hooked on the NCIS reruns on USA, I can probably catch up when the new CBS season starts. Besides I now have TWO freakin Idols, I don’t need anymore!

I think it’s a ploy…Didn’t Simon say he wouldn’t do the show without Randy, Paula and Ryan on Oprah??

While I find Kara to be a much better judge, Paula was part of the chemistry and I’m worried about how this will affect the show.

An epic… who cares.

I’m with steve on this one.

One thing that I know is that she’s a better than Simon at seeing talent… he’s just honest and people dig that …. cruel honest.. like if somebody’s a mess… he says …”you’re a mess” you look like a Monkey” or you dress bad..etc.. America eats that up.. but when it comes to talent he’s ALWAYS off.. like with J Hudson, ADAM LAMBERT…. Contantine..etc.. he’s always said they didn’t have it.. he jumped on Adam’s bandwagon at the end, but Paula was there the SECOND he sang a note.. I’ll miss her… if it’s true.

I don’t know what they thought would happen after paying Simon and Ryan so much. What did she want, 20mil and they were offering 10mil? 10 million is A LOT of money… but probably not much in comparison to Simon.

It’s relative deprivation. Your house is fine until they build a palace next to it- suddenly it becomes a shack.

I don’t think it’s any big loss. Kara is pretty annoying, but none of the judges are worth millions of dollars.

I don’t feel this is a ploy; Paula is not coming back. I knew when Kara’s contract extension was announced, it was over for Paula. I said it last yr. and I’ll say it now; Kara’s purpose was to replace Paula after season 8, when her contract was up.

This was the plan all along, Kara came along to push Paula out. I wonder if there will be backlash against Kara.

If NCIS does beat them in the ratings, people will say it was because Paula left. I doubt I’ll watch next season. I was a casual watcher until this season, I rarely watch serial programming at all and I didn’t like feeling tied to the TV this past season. So no Adam, no Paula, no me.

end of my babbling.

ugghh- now we are left with Kara. What a world.

It might have been a negotiating ploy before…not now. And I agree, they brought Kara in to ease Paula out. To me, the show is/was/should be Randy (well, I guess so), Paula, Simon, Ryan. Kara took up space.

Is Randy’s contract up next year? And Kara only signed for one year, I think. This says to me: S9 is Idol’s last season.

PISSED THE HELL OFF. And I wasn’t sure I wanted to watch next year, anyway. This gives me more impetus to call it a day. Maybe she can just be a rotating judge on SYTYCD; Nigel loves her. And Lyndsey Parker has weighed in, BTW, in Paula’s defense.

Paula lost any respect I had for her during Season 7 when she critiqued Jason Castro on his second song before he had even performed it.

Her antics with Simon in Season 8 were annoying.

Not convinced that she’s not coming back to the show.

I don’t know what they thought would happen after paying Simon and Ryan so much. What did she want, 20mil and they were offering 10mil? 10 million is A LOT of money’ ¦ but probably not much in comparison to Simon.

It’s relative deprivation. Your house is fine until they build a palace next to it- suddenly it becomes a shack.

I don’t think it’s any big loss. Kara is pretty annoying, but none of the judges are worth millions of dollars.

I never understood why Ryan was worth so much. A complete mystery. The judges $$ I could see the argument, but a short, closeted, snark… I just don’t get.

S9 is Idol’s last season.

I don’t believe this. Despite “sagging” ratings, Idol is still a ratings behemoth. It earns a ton of money. I don’t think they’re going to cancel it anytime soon.

I don’t think Pauler will be back. I think this whole “negotiation” was to allow her to save face. I think they wanted her canned after season 7. 4 judges= too many. We’ll see.

Seriously, is it really worth 3 mill a year to sit there and fuck up all the time?

Seacrest actually earns his shiz. Simon is Simon.

I never understood why Ryan was worth so much. A complete mystery. The judges $$ I could see the argument, but a short, closeted, snark’ ¦ I just don’t get.

If Paula felt that she was at least worth as much to the show as Ryan, well, she is. She really is. And she’s worth the 1/12th of Simon’s salary she was asking for, if we can believe the rumors.

If Paula really is leaving the show, I will be sorry to see her go. She is apart of the Idol family, the chemistry of the show, and one of the reasons why it became as popular as it did. Not to mention she helped put some really talented people through, that might not have made it far in the competition if she weren’t around(Chris Daughtry, David Cook). I definitely think that Paula is important to the show and I will miss her if she leaves. I would much rather have her around than Kara.

Have watched Idol from the very first season and I can not begin to fathom Idol without her. Crazy, funny, loving, etc she is one of the best parts of Idol. If the contestants get nothing else from her, they get love after Randy & Simon rip them to pieces. Yes I know the music biz is harsh, but still…..

Hope this is a ploy.

Anything that is going to happen will happen tomorrow. Thursday the judges start meeting the contestants.

If Paula felt that she was at least worth as much to the show as Ryan, well, she is. She really is.

I don’t even like Paula and I’d agree with that.

Do you really think it’s a negotiating ploy? I hope so cus I’m sad. :(

I never understood why Ryan was worth so much. A complete mystery. The judges $$ I could see the argument, but a short, closeted, snark’ ¦ I just don’t get.

Ryan pretty much holds the live shows together. He also runs the rehearsals. She comes in and has hair and make-up and flubs her scripted critiques.

Her antics with Simon in Season 8 were annoying.

Yeah the judges have really begun to piss me off. It’s too focused on them. Like, when they would walk out and go down the stairs being followed by a spotlight. And I think it was Megan who said that a few times, they weren’t even paying attention to them. And you know that’s true.

They had their favorites and they tried to manipulate the audience to get that end result. Had anyone other than Danny do the “Dream On” performance, they would have been annihilated. Can you imagine if Anoop had done something that terrible?

Wipe the slate. Get rid of all of them. Who cares.

Normally I don’t think I would care if Paula left, but in her place is Kara freaking DioGuardi! Nooooooo!!

Okay, I’d rather they start off with a whole new team of judges- get rid of Simon

I think she’s done. I think it’s been set up since Kara came in last year for whatever reason. I would like to see Paula stay over Kara, it just feels right. But if you asked me would i rather have 4 judges or 3 judges minus paula, id chose the latter for one simple reason -> more screen time for contestants (and simon gets to chime in more).

I don’t think it’s a coincidence that she started tweeting just as the Idol in DC was ending, knowing there would be a large crowd of Idol fans following the concert on twitter.

I’m sure the next step is for another groundswell of support from the masses, and the news will be filled tomorrow with reports of fans up in arms’ ¦

And I would not be surprised if it’s all a ploy to force 19′s hand. I still think she’s coming back seriously, I do.

She sounded rather definitive to me, but I have no doubt that it will have some big repercutions, first I am waiting for her to be trending n °1 on twitter (after people finish with SignMattGiraud).

Oh no! I ADORE Paula.
I know she gets a lot of bad rep but the panel won’t be the same without her.
She is just special and believe it or not I think she actually gave great comments in the last couple of years. Plus she’s very nurturing and contestants need that too.
Kara as the only girl in the panel is going to be a trainwreck.
I never liked Kara by the way.

She’s announcing this on Twitter? Ha. Ha. Hahahaha. Right. Oh the drama. She’ll be back.

Im on the who gives a F train. The show must go on.

This suuuuuuuuuuuux. I feel, despite her drunken antics and distraction, Paula Abdul is important to this show. It’s 1) Simon, 2) Ryan, 3) Paula, and they could have chopped off Randy and Kara and I would’ve been fine with a 2 judge panel.

Wipe the slate. Get rid of all of them. Who cares.

But that’s not what’s going to happen. Simon will stay, Randy is still under contract for longer, so he stays, the only difference is that Kara replaces Paula. And no way is Kara any better at anything, over Paula. Kara isn’t as positive as Paula, or as negative as Simon or inert as Randy. See I would take Kara over Randy, but not Kara over Paula.

If just for the lulz, Paula is part of the show.

Ryan pretty much holds the live shows together. He also runs the rehearsals. She comes in and has hair and make-up and flubs her scripted critiques.

I didn’t realize that he ran the rehearsals.. I still find him obnoxious. At least when Paula didn’t appear sober, we at least could ignore her. :)

I’m not giving a crap about this if it’s true. The only thing that would make it better is if it were Randy!

Yeah, and although Simon said he wouldn’t want to do it without Paula, he also backtracked and said it wasn’t up to him.

She’s announcing this on Twitter? Ha. Ha. Hahahaha. Right. Oh the drama. She’ll be back.

Could be. I kinda hope not. So tired of her drama.

I like Kara, but not at the expense of Paula. Of the original three she seemed to be the most real and caring of the singers as people rather than potential commodities. Plus, she had an early eye for talent.

I think I might be the only one who thinks this is for real. I just can’t see Idol without here. I see more hate going towards Kara now

For those who didn’t see it or don’t remember, Paulagate from Season 7:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9xF8BP45a6A

If Paula doesn’t come back next year, I’m really sorry for the contestants, they will get no mercy on the judges panel. I remember Adam saying how he felt safe just because Paula was there.

They might annoy some people, but at least, her comments give the contestants something to hold on to.

It would really, really suck if this is definitive, I just can’t imagine Idol without her, it just wouldn’t be the same.

As much as I love Paula and her craziness over the years AI is really not about the judges (other than SImon). It is about the talent…It really is. Fans are not going to see the judges on tour are they? No. The show will survive and be just fine thank you.

why couldn’t it be randy!

Paula lost any respect I had for her during Season 7 when she critiqued Jason Castro on his second song before he had even performed it.

Blame it in aaaaaahhahahahaalcohollllllllllllllllllllllllll, that night was hilarious!

Sad to see her go, she’s part of why I love the show!

I really feel this was in the works once they had Kara on last season. I dont think its a ploy, I think she’s well and truly done…..sads

I can’t say I’ll miss her. She was incoherent even at the best of times. I just wanted to kick her like Milli Vanilli did the record player, just to get her back on track.

I have a feeling Season 9 will be the last one. It’s gone down hill as far as viewership the last three years, and Kara taking Paula’s place is the pits.

Who called it for Adam? Kara? No. Simon? Hells no. Randy: yep. And Paula? 100 percent yes from the minute she saw him in CA. (“He’s the best we’ve seen in any city.”) She royally screwed up with Castro, yep, but she was helluva lot stronger this season. And she cares about the Idols. They all say so.

ETA: If she leaves Idol and ends up on SYTYCD, that wouldn’t be a bad thing. They actually have some coherent comments on there, unlike the soundbites on Idol, when Mary isn’t on her Hot Tamale Train and Nigel is being constructive and not a perv. He loves Paula, so I expect to see her on during the the fall season.

I don’t think it’s a negotiating ploy. I think she’s gone.

One thing that I know is that she’s a better than Simon at seeing talent’ ¦

I absolutely agree with this. Simon saw nothing in Daughtry or Cook, and thought Kelly was forgettable. People like him because he is brutally honest, but it won’t do the show any good to miss the diamonds in the rough either.

ETA:

As much as I love Paula and her craziness over the years AI is really not about the judges (other than SImon). It is about the talent’ ¦It really is. Fans are not going to see the judges on tour are they? No. The show will survive and be just fine thank you.

See above. Paula is part of deciding which talent gets through. That, to me, was where she had some real value, other than just for the lolz.

Fine by me. But I agree, probably a negotiating ploy. Not impressed by her attention seeking behavior.

Now I don’t have to yell “Sit down Paula” at my tv! It’s all good for me.

Send her over to SYTYCD as an occasional guest judge.

She also really supported David Cook last year. She was actually the first one to see him as someone with potential to win. She rambles sometimes and seems to have trouble getting the words out, but I don’t think the show would be as good without her. I hope it is a ploy and that it works.

Rumors are that Paula will be a judge on SYTYCD in the fall.

Yes, I’m not her biggest fan. But Idol(fox) is making a HUGE mistake by letting her walk. Kara was taking heat all last season, do you think we will all like her now that Paula is gone.

If Paula doesn’t come back next year, I’m really sorry for the contestants, they will get no mercy on the judges panel. I remember Adam saying how he felt safe just because Paula was there.

They might annoy some people, but at least, her comments give the contestants something to hold on to.

Yes, but people don’t take Paula’s advice or comments to heart. You know they only listen for what Simon says. Simon is like… medicine or something. It doesn’t taste good but you need it. Paula is candy. You like it, it’s sweet, but there is no nutritional value to it.

Meh. I’ll miss her. Maybe for about a week. At the end of the day, who cares? Most people who watch the show have a hell of lot more important issues in their lives than Paula’s return to Idol. With the economy the way it is, people getting laid off left and right, who in their right mind would have sympathy for a person who would snub their nose at the high-profile, high-paying job that she held? The brutal truth: No one is every irreplacable. No one. Ever.

But what difference does it really make in the long run. We know this show is pretty scripted, from audition to nearly the finals. The producers find singers with interesting backstories (not necessarily the best singers) and it all starts from there. Yet for some reason I keep watching this show. *sadly shaking head* and I am sure I will still watch it with Paula gone.

I absolutely agree with this. Simon saw nothing in Daughtry or Cook, and thought Kelly was forgettable. People like him because he is brutally honest, but it won’t do the show any good to miss the diamonds in the rough either.

I agree with this as well. If it weren’t for Paula and Randy some of the most talented Idols/most successful ones wouldn’t have made it nearly as far as they did on the show. Some of them wouldn’t have even made the semifinals, in their respective seasons. She and Randy do have an eye for talent, and have often spotted the diamonds in the rough, when Simon initially rejected them. IMO, she does have a place on the show, and a purpose.

I’d still rather have anyone from the judging panel from Canadian Idol instead of Paula, Randy or Kara. The Canadians manage to be respectful of the contestants and give worthwhile critiques while also being entertaining. Simon is the only AI judge who comes close to that.

Kara at least seems sober on air, and like she pays attention to the performances. My biggest complaint about her is that she tries to put each performer in a genre box and criticizes them for doing any other style. Hopefully she’ll grow as a judge with more experience, whereas Paula keeps upping her level of unprofessionalism.

Who called it for Adam? Kara? No. Simon? Hells no. Randy: yep. And Paula? 100 percent yes from the minute she saw him in CA. (‘ He’s the best we’ve seen in any city.’ ) She royally screwed up with Castro, yep, but she was helluva lot stronger this season. And she cares about the Idols. They all say so.

Eh, the producers pick the top 24/36. The whole Hollywood thing is a ploy. I’m sure Adam would have the same result if Paula wasn’t there.

The contestants like Paula because she’s not mean. Whatev.

Maybe for us Idol fans the show is about the contestants. But to be honest, the casual viewers or regular viewers do think that the show is about the judges, they might not even remember the name of more than 2 contestants of the previous seasons, but if there are things that the non-fans viewers love are the contrast between Paula and Simon and the auditions episodes.

She was also one of the first to take Kris Allen seriously this season. She never underestimated him and even completely disgreed with Kara when she critiqued his performance of Man in the Mirror. I admire her honesty and also her ability to give negative feedback as though it pains her rather than with the arrogant swagger of, oh say a Simon Cowell.

I hope MJ is right and this is just another ploy. Right now I’m leaning towards her actually being gone and I’m surprised at how sorry I am to see her go.

OMG this is sad. I love paula. I am really sad. i was hoping they wld work it out. it can’t be the money cos everyone else is obviously getting what they want. This is a bad call.

Paula isn’t always supportive when it goes down to it. She can’t even read her lines (see that youtube above). I was a Jason fan and I kind of think it really threw him off his game. At the same time, I think he was probably out of game anyway. ;-) But there’s no excuse for that if you’re being paid $3 mill a year and are now demanding more???? I would rather they pay the contestants more and fire her.

I am sorry to see Paula go. Even though she was loopy at times, she seemed to care about the contestants. She did have a good eye for talent. She seemed to be much more coherent in Season 8 than she had been in past seasons. She will be missed.

Since this show is now on it’s last leg…. how long until it is turned into the X-factor. I say in 2 years. But than again, maybe this is the shot in the arm the show needed

She was also one of the first to take Kris Allen seriously this season. She never underestimated him and even completely disgreed with Kara when she critiqued his performance of Man in the Mirror.

Everyone is assuming that she had an original thought and it wasn’t scripted. Think we have hard evidence that she’s scripted, so I wouldn’t take any projected eye for talent on her part seriously.

Also, she’s been selling her old clothes on eBay saying it’s for charity, but only 10% really goes to charity. I guess $3 mill is just not enough for her. She has to demand more and sell her clothes. Poor Pauler!

I doubt it’s a negotiation ploy. That Kara press release was pretty blatant, I think Paula is gone.

Shame :(. She and Simon are the only two judges I liked last season. I find Kara really irritating, her voice gives me a headache.

I should add that I read Paula’s tweet on twitter and came on here to see if MJ is talking about it. I waited and here it is!

Didn’t she alos think Danny was good?

Also, she’s been selling her old clothes on eBay saying it’s for charity, but only 10% really goes to charity.

whaaaaaaaaaaaaaaat?

Didn’t she alos think Danny was good?

She said Danny would sell out stadiums. :laugh_tb:

some interesting developments

BonnieFuller, “President and Editor in Chief, HollywoodLife.com,” says this is a PR stunt!!

“I hear that Paula Abdul has already signed her new deal with Idol. The whole sob sob story of not gettg a deal was a pure publicity stunt.”

“Everyone was into the Paula PR stint- her contract is DONE DEAL!”
http://twitter.com/BonnieFuller

i dunno, it would seem pretty stupid to outright lie to her fans and the public.

and this woman’s tweets are all very gossip heavy so i wouldn’t trust her too much.

I think the contestants needed the balance. Simon and Paula. Paula was always there for the love and support. Simon was there for the reality: it’s a tough business. Between the both of them, there was a balance. I hope Paula gets what she wants, but I’m not watching next year anyway. Adam took too much out of my life. After eight years, Paula and I will say good-bye to AI. At least Paula is going out on a high. From day one, she predicted great things for Adam, and I know Adam will always remember that.

Oh thank God. I have been ready for Paula to leave for a while now. She brings absolutely nothing to the table. When was the last time she had an honest, musical criticism that your average Joe wouldn’t be able to give? Plus, I always figured Kara was her eventual replacement.

Adios, Paula.

This is really starting to bug me, here we have people losing there jobs or working at the bottom of the pay scale, and she is complaining about a few million, on a show where she sits on her ass and talks! So deep down inside she is just a greedy as Simon

Everyone is assuming that she had an original thought and it wasn’t scripted.

She can’t follow a script and she’s not a good enough actress to fake her reactions. I think she’s a looney but she’s a genuine looney.

Paula always supported everyone, she said yes to Daughtry, Cook or Adam along with hundreds of other moderatly talented dudes.

She was also one of the first to take Kris Allen seriously this season. She never underestimated him and even completely disgreed with Kara when she critiqued his performance of Man in the Mirror. I admire her honesty and also her ability to give negative feedback as though it pains her rather than with the arrogant swagger of, oh say a Simon Cowell.

If I was a Kris Allen fan, I sure wouldn’t want to defend Paula, she was the one insisting on a Adam-Danny finale and if you go back to top 3 night, it’s clear which contestant she wants in the finale.

Didn’t she also think Danny was good?

She effing LOVED gokey.

Paula lost any respect I had for her during Season 7 when she critiqued Jason Castro on his second song before he had even performed it.

Her antics with Simon in Season 8 were annoying.

Not convinced that she’s not coming back to the show.

Yeah, I agree with this. No one really knows who noticed which contestants first because the show is edited through the Hollywood round. And I mean really, really, really edited, as in Paula loving Carrie’s audition performance when Paula wasn’t even there. What isn’t edited is Paula’s antics during the live show critiques. She scores a big fat zero for all the slurring, flubbing, giggling and moronic comments. This is why she gets no respect. This is why, gods willing, Idol is finally free of her.

Everyone is assuming that she had an original thought and it wasn’t scripted. Think we have hard evidence that she’s scripted, so I wouldn’t take any projected eye for talent on her part seriously.

Yeah, funny how people are pointing out that the stars of the season/post-show/whatever are dismissed by Simon initially, but totally supported by Paula from the start. Coincidence? I think not. Winning Simon over is part of the narrative (and makes the story for that contestant seem grander), while Paula liking them from the start states their potential.

I am going to miss Paula if she goes. As I usually am a casual viewer, she is such a hoot. If she does go, I see the show coming to a halt soon, making way for Simon’s X-Factor. I really hope he leaves Louis Walsh in the UK as I cannot stand him.

If this is fake( and she has signed), I for one will lose all respect for her

I, think Paula is to good for AI. I hope she does leave and the show crashes.

lyndseyparkerRT @ChrisWillman: Bill Clinton could get Paula back on Idol.

LOL

This is really starting to bug me, here we have people losing there jobs or working at the bottom of the pay scale, and she is complaining about a few million, on a show where she sits on her ass and talks! So deep down inside she is just a greedy as Simon

Yeah.. it’d be one thing if she actually.. you know… deserved millions of dollars. But no. She doesn’t. Good riddance. That’s what you get for being greedy.

This is really starting to bug me, here we have people losing there jobs or working at the bottom of the pay scale, and she is complaining about a few million, on a show where she sits on her ass and talks! So deep down inside she is just a greedy as Simon

And she only sits on that ass for 2 days a week for about 16 weeks out of the year for those millions. The rest of the time she twitters. At least Simon works for his money.

At least now we have 3 honest judges and not one who will talk about good clothes or hair to avoiding telling them they suck

So we are to be left with ….

Well, I don’t know dawg…
Artistry…. &
Indulgent Rubish!

Personally, I really liked Paula’s deconstructed poetry.

MJ, you may be right, it could be a negotiation tactic. But it doesn’t seem like a very good one.

This whole thing is started to remind me of the story about the goose who laid the golden eggs.

Yeah, funny how people are pointing out that the stars of the season/post-show/whatever are dismissed by Simon initially, but totally supported by Paula from the start. Coincidence? I think not. Winning Simon over is part of the narrative (and makes the story for that contestant seem grander), while Paula liking them from the start states their potential.

Thanks for extending my thought process here.

Yeah.. it’d be one thing if she actually.. you know’ ¦ deserved millions of dollars. But no. She doesn’t. Good riddance. That’s what you get for being greedy.

I’m not sure she has much bargaining power. I think she was asked to leave and they are letting her save face. I could be wrong. I guess we’ll find out soon enough. After all, she’s all about the drama and they eat that shit up. See, I’m already talking myself out of my opinion.

I am sad because Paula is leaving. She is just needed.

BTW on the other hand I am very happy because:
#signmattgiraud is trending at #7. Yes! I hope Matty G gets to see it. It will make him so happy tonight.
Paula is trending at #4.

She was also one of the first to take Kris Allen seriously this season.

That’s not really saying much, considering how long Kris was mostly an after-thought by the judges, producers and media. I don’t think she thought Kris was more than just cute cannon-fodder till “Ain’t No Sunshine”, like most everyone else.

Let’s face it… Paula tends to like everyone and it’s particularly easy to like Kris. But Paula was on the Danny/Adam express train to the finale from the moment the top 36 were announced. She didn’t veer off that course till Danny was booted. By that time, there were only 2 left and one of them was Kris.

I wonder if Paula actually thought they would let her walk. I think she has been caught off guard. If anything she will be the one going back to the table imo

This is really starting to bug me, here we have people losing there jobs or working at the bottom of the pay scale, and she is complaining about a few million, on a show where she sits on her ass and talks! So deep down inside she is just a greedy as Simon

Both Simon and Ryan will get huge ass pay raises, and yes yes, Ryan is a good MC, but worth what they are paying him for what he does when others are losing their jobs, etc., and Simon’s greed will be rewarded. So not seeing as how Paula’s supposed greediness is any worse that Simon’s, who will probably get tons more cash, or Ryan, who also got a pay raise. From a show that still is raking in big bucks. And as per earlier articles on this site, in fact finding ways to make even more money, even with less ratings.

but yeah, let’s keep all that money in the much purer and hard working hands of the likes of 19Evil, Sony and Disney. I feel so much more for the struggle of corporation to make money in this day and age, rather than yes, even overpaid stars.

Both Simon and Ryan will get huge ass pay raises, and yes yes, Ryan is a good MC, but worth what they are paying him for what he does when others are losing their jobs, etc., and Simon’s greed will be rewarded. So not seeing as how Paula’s supposed greediness is any worse that Simon’s, who will probably get tons more cash, or Ryan, who also got a pay raise. From a show that still is raking in big bucks. And as per earlier articles on this site, in fact finding ways to make even more money, even with less ratings.

but yeah, let’s keep all that money in the much purer and hard working hands of the likes of 19Evil, Sony and Disney. I feel so much more for the struggle of corporation to make money in this day and age, rather than yes, even overpaid stars.

You make good points about the greed. That’s why I suggested they share it with the kids.

I think Ryan’s deal exceeded his hosting stuff, though. And well, I hate to say it, but Paula is more expendable than Simon. He’s also got his hand in the production end of things. Are they all overpaid? Yep. But which one can’t follow a script? I think 3 mill is generous.

Well this kinda sucks for the new batch of contestants in season 9 lol no ones gonna care about them and just focus on the “No Paula” thing

“Her antics with Simon in Season 8 were annoying.”

So, Simon gets OTT millions, and Paula gets the door. They both took part in the antics, (and it WAS annoying), so they both should get the same treatment.

I’m not a long-time viewer of the show, but liked the balance of having her there, and kind of felt like a lot of the loopy stuff was just getting the show a lot of press. I heard all about it before ever seeing the show, and was curious to actually see what she was really like on the show. I guess that proves the theory that there is no such thing as bad press…at least in the case of AI.

4 judges were too many, so I’m not sure that this is just a negotiating ploy.

If they gave her an insulting offer, (in light of what others are getting paid), then I give her credit for walking, if that’s indeed the case. She’ll survive without the show.

The one judge that I thought was totally worthless this last year was Randy. Too bad his contract wasn’t up for renewal.

But ultimately what will determine whether or not I watch the next season is who the contestants are. I would have watched Adam each week this year with or without Paula.

Yeah, funny how people are pointing out that the stars of the season/post-show/whatever are dismissed by Simon initially, but totally supported by Paula from the start. Coincidence? I think not. Winning Simon over is part of the narrative (and makes the story for that contestant seem grander), while Paula liking them from the start states their potential.

Ya’ll have more cynical and smart minds than me. I’d never even noticed this pattern..LOL

EW has a statement from Fox:

‘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.’ 

This shocks me. If they were going to push further with negotiations, would they release such a final sounding statement? Or are they just calling her bluff? At what point will such bluff-calling go beyond the point of no return?

Well if she goes I ´m not gonna miss her… but I ´m not the biggest fan of the show … Can we get Jewel on please… or I don ´t know another falling star from the 80 ´s… Is Cindy Lauper or Dolly ready to go…

rbidol
Aug 4th, 2009 at 11:56 pm
EW has a statement from Fox:

‘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.’ 

This shocks me. If they were going to push further with negotiations, would they release such a final sounding statement? Or are they just calling her bluff? At what point will such bluff-calling go beyond the point of no return?

It’s over, she’s gone.

Paula is certifiable schizophrenic in my estimation. Having watched her little reality show for 10 minutes a few years back and her rants and raves and her nobody respects me diatribes I lost what little respect I had for the woman. She hasn’t made an original comment on Idol for many, many years. Some poor little $10 an hour intern is obviously writing all her material…and its pretty crappy at that.

She is by far the most self-centered egotistical bratty bitch that I have ever watched on TV. She adds nothing to the program, IMHO, other than some horrible really tatty jewelry and a pair of bosoms that would be better covered up. If she isn’t drunk she is borderline high at the best of times. Her little tit-a-tats with Simon suck and she is forever trying to get the camera focused on her.

The minute any of the judges open their mouths I mute the TV. Their nonsensical critiques do nothing for the show and end up being an embarrassment for the contestants to endure.

I am sure that all of this is another stupid, stupid publicity stunt and all about Paula and her damn self-centered ego. I wish she would be gone…but I don’t put much stock in TPTB using their brains and letting her really go.

Poor poor pitiful pouty Paula.

being a part of a show that I helped from day1become an international phenomenon.

Tee Hee. Paula can’t help but always try to take credit for AI’s success.

I’m sure the next step is for another groundswell of support from the masses, and the news tomorrow will be filled reports of fans who are up in arms’ ¦

Some more twitter spam on Paula’s behalf? That would be the day I’d waste my time trying to get an already over-paid hack more money. If her fans fall for that one again, they’re just dumb.

And I would not be surprised if it’s all an attempt to force 19′s hand. I still think she’s coming back. Seriously, I do.

I love ya’, but I hope you’re wrong :) You’re probably right about the timing though. And, the desperation of that makes her even more pathetic and needy than I thought she was before.

I agree with PJ that I doubt Paula’s had an original thought through the entire AI process. Her babbling and rambling on makes no sense whatsoever. I don’t think she ever gives the kids any critique that actually contains substance of any kind.

She’s the one who really cares for the contestants? If she had any respect for the contestants, she wouldn’t pull her stupid stunts, with props no less. She’s one of the most narcissistic people on television.

Oh man…I really hope she isn’t done. She may be crazy and I still kinda hate her for the Jason Castro mess up, but we’ve seen how bad the changes have been for the show, so at least she’s the kind of crazy we recognize. Having Kara there without Paula is just wrooong.

@Tess so you aren ´t gonna miss her :lol_tb: :lol_tb:

I view this as a positive development for the show. While I don’t doubt that Paula is a nice person, it was time for the sideshow that is the judges panel to end. Now Simon can listen to the performances and critique them professionally without fooling around with Paula – or if not, it’s time for him to go as well if he’s too bored with the show to offer up his serious and sincere commentary.

I watched SYTYCD for the first time ever the other night when I heard one dance would be done to Kris’ Heartless. I was shocked at the constructive, serious, helpful, worthwhile things the judges had to say, especially when contracted with what goes on at Idol. No snark, no nastiness, no pointless blabbering amongst themselves while the contestant twists in the wind, waiting for their comments. I felt like each judge cared about the contestant, took their performances seriously, and tried to give a helpful and honest assessment of what they’d watched. That simply doesn’t happen on Idol anymore. It’s time for new judges.

YMMV.

It looks like they are going with Kara as a replacement and going back to 3 judges. I think Paula is trying to play hardball, but they won’t go for it. Too easy to get Kara to play “nice judge”.

I’m guessing Paula is not going to be there this week for audition rounds, and I’m 75% sure she will not be on the show this year (not to say that she will never be back though, depending on how it goes without her).

Here is the E ONLINE story on Paula

http://www.eonline.com/uberblog/b137736_paula_abdul_ive_decided_not_return_idol.html?utm_source=eonline&utm_medium=rssfeeds&utm_campaign=rss_topstories

Also the Fox News story on it.

http://www.myfoxla.com/dpp/entertainment/television/Paula_Abdul_Leaving_American_Idol_20090804

Neither story is advanced. Nothing new, but they do dig up old quotes from her manager.

And of course the link to the Yahoo News story with Fox’s statement

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090805/ap_on_en_ot/us_tv_american_idol_abdul_2

Wow. If Paula is really leaving? It’s a mistake. She’s never going to get a gig as good as Idol.

I think it was pretty clear that they brought Kara on last season to phase Paula out. I’m guessing they had no intention of bringing her back and it wasn’t her choice in the end.

At least now we have 3 honest judges and not one who will talk about good clothes or hair to avoiding telling them they suck.

No, they’ll just tell contestants their clothes suck to avoid telling them how awesome they are, like Simon and Randy did to Allison.

I hope they stick with 3 judges.

Wow. If Paula is really leaving? It’s a mistake. She’s never going to get a gig as good as Idol. And although it will be an adjustment (I got a lot of lulz out of Paula’s loopiness) the show will certainly survive. There is no, judge, no contestant, no producer that’s bigger than the show itself. Paula is certainly replaceable.

MJ, I highly doubt it was her choice. I mean, the writing was on the wall w/Kara. Perhaps she’ll show up on SYTYCD. Sigh. I think it’s better than she is.

She’s the one who really cares for the contestants? If she had any respect for the contestants, she wouldn’t pull her stupid stunts, with props no less. She’s one of the most narcissistic people on television.

Yep, Spense is right on as usual. Maybe that’s why she loved Connie and Corey.

She is by far the most self-centered egotistical bratty bitch that I have ever watched on TV.

LOL Tess, we were spewing our Paula Venom simultaneously and I almost missed your post filled with goodnes there. I guess I don’t need to point out that I agree :)

Wow this is messed up. Paula may have been a little, erm, ok a lot loopy but I’ll take her over Randy and Kara any day. I CANNOT stand Kara.

That means that Simon is leaving next year when his contract is up. I could totally imagine him bringing Xfactor to the US and signing Paula on that to try and bring in the Idol audience

washpd
Aug 5th, 2009 at 12:12 am
At least now we have 3 honest judges and not one who will talk about good clothes or hair to avoiding telling them they suck.

No, they’ll just tell contestants their clothes suck to avoid telling them how awesome they are, like Simon and Randy did to Allison.

I don’t think 1 week did any of them say her vocal was bad.Lots of other stuff but not that.

MJ, I highly doubt it was her choice. I mean, the writing was on the wall w/Kara. Perhaps she’ll show up on SYTYCD. Sigh. I think it’s better than she is.

I dunno, I think this was always about money. Paula could have come back if she’d met their terms.

That means that Simon is leaving next year when his contract is up. I could totally imagine him bringing Xfactor to the US and signing Paula on that to try and bring in the Idol audience

Wouldn’t mind that. But did Simon really only sign a 1 year contract? Ryan’s is three years. Wouldn’t Simon’s be as long?

I do think they will be ditching Randy after next year.

I dunno, I think this was always about money. Paula could have come back if she’d met their terms.

I have a hard time believing she wouldn’t take the $3mil for doing nothing…

If she didn’t, then she’s more of an idiot than I think she is! Maybe you know more than we do, but I just don’t see a lot of bargaining power on her part. Bringing in a replacement and her not signing after her contract ends smacks of being fired to me.

I dunno, I think this was always about money. Paula could have come back if she’d met their terms.

Maybe… I don’t know. Didn’t Paula’s agent say that she hadn’t gotten an offer? I know that was interpreted as “a good offer,” but maybe they just didn’t want her back. The four judge format wasn’t working too well, even just considering the timing issues, and maybe they wanted to change up the judging table.

I dunno, I think this was always about money. Paula could have come back if she’d met their terms.

Yeah, obviously they didn’t feel she was worth what she asking for. Plus, she dragged so much of her negotiating strategy around with her in public like smelly bag full of garbage.

If I were running that company, and she was on every talk show with her “boo hoo, they won’t pay me enough” and enciting twitter campaings, the only thing she’d have heard from my side of the bargaining table was crickets.

The drama queen just didn’t know when to reign it back in.

But did Simon really only sign a 1 year contract?

Simon has not signed a contract. He’s still on his current contract til the end of next season.

This just pisses me off!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I feel I have to comment even though I haven’t read the posts from
everyone. (usually I do.)

I adore Paula! She is so fantastic and she should be on the show instead
of Kara.

I’m proud of her for holding her ground, but this just completely sucks!

Bad, bad, bad, AI dummies.

No. None of the judges are replaceable. Kara is not a replacement for Paula. Kara has no personality, and the little glimpses of personality we did get from her on occasion bordered on the wooden and uber-nerdy. At least Paula was spirited, unpredictable, genuine, funny, spontaneous. Kara is none of those things. And isn’t it ironic that Paula has just come off what many critics view as her most lucid performance season ever.

So, again. No. The show will not be the same as the oruginal. The parts are not interchangeable. The “new” combo/cast of 3 will not be better than the original. I dare say they won’t be as good.

Love her or hate her, Paula was a one-off. Kara? Not so much.

If Idol continues after next year, Randy’s toast.

I think this will affect Idol ratings next season. IMO, AI has now officially jumped the shark.

Wow. This makes me sad. If she isn’t coming back, I don’t think it is her desire to leave. I also don’t think Ryan Seacrest deserves the extravagant contract that he was given. What would justify paying him so much more than they were offering Paula? I don’t understand the politics, I guess.

She may have wanted X amount and was instead was offered Y amount.. but Y amount is better than 0.

MJ is right. She had a sweet-ass deal. Her loss. She can fade into oblivion now.

Actually, I’m not surprised that Paula appears to be leaving. After I read the press release announcing Kara’s return and citing her support of Adam, I suspected Paula’s days on AI might be over. It seemed like TPTB were getting the bus ready for Paula.

As I said on one of the other threads, I think Paula’s departure isn’t a bad thing for AI. The show needs some new blood on the judging panel. Next year Randy’s contract is up, and TPTB should replace him, too.

Paula is certifiable schizophrenic in my estimation. Having watched her little reality show for 10 minutes a few years back and her rants and raves and her nobody respects me diatribes I lost what little respect I had for the woman. She hasn’t made an original comment on Idol for many, many years. Some poor little $10 an hour intern is obviously writing all her material’ ¦and its pretty crappy at that.

She is by far the most self-centered egotistical bratty bitch that I have ever watched on TV. She adds nothing to the program, IMHO, other than some horrible really tatty jewelry and a pair of bosoms that would be better covered up. If she isn’t drunk she is borderline high at the best of times. Her little tit-a-tats with Simon suck and she is forever trying to get the camera focused on her.

The minute any of the judges open their mouths I mute the TV. Their nonsensical critiques do nothing for the show and end up being an embarrassment for the contestants to endure.

I am sure that all of this is another stupid, stupid publicity stunt and all about Paula and her damn self-centered ego. I wish she would be gone’ ¦but I don’t put much stock in TPTB using their brains and letting her really go.

Poor poor pitiful pouty Paula.

I agree Tess. I’ve always thought that American Idol may be RealityTV but there are writers there and TPTB partly knows how to act the part given to them. Although, sometimes, they give it away (i.e. discussing if they’re gonna do the SAVE while the banished Idol sings for his/her life). I somehow don’t feel the sincerity and novelty of their lines for this season as opposed to the first few seasons. So imagine my lack of consternation when Junot Joyner announced his piece of AI news. Like I said before, Junot, tell me something I don’t already know. Ho-hum…

And I honestly don’t think Paula alone would’ve come up with those high-falloting words in a few mins/secs esp while on her daily dose of painkillers. I’m an anesthesiologist and I know how those painkillers really work and it definitely clogs the mind enough not to think of Webster-browsing-worthy words.

I’ll end my post with this: Paula needs American Idol more than they need her. Adios.

I’m proud of her for holding her ground, but this just completely sucks!

See though, there’s a lesson here. Every company’s executives have a breaking point where they just say “screw it, don’t come back, I’m over it”. Happens all the time. Shocking exits of tv personalities. NFL teams who won’t pick up the phone for the ego-maniac not showing up to training camp. Everyone is expendable. And, where AI is concerned, no one is bigger than the franchise itself.

I’m sure the next step is for another groundswell of support from the masses, and the news tomorrow will be filled reports of fans who are up in arms’ ¦

MJ– how can I participate in being one of those fans who are up in arms. Paula is at least or more so apart of AI than Ryan or Simon.

I’m super bummed about this.

I don’t get people saying that the show is on its last legs. Have the ratings dropped? Yes, but so have ratings for all of television. It was still the highest-rated show, and it still made a TON of money for producers, sponsors, and the network. I don’t believe the show is going anywhere.

I am very disappointed that they signed Kara and are not signing Paula. It is just about fairness. Paula was a part of the chemistry that made the show so popular. Her comments are as intelligent as Randy’s “for me for you for me”. I was disgusted this year with all of the interplay between Simon and Paula when they should have been paying attention to the contestants, but that is on Simon as much as on Paula.

I don’t want her 1 leave :(. ( will rant more later) American idol ratings are going to sink a lot.

What would justify paying him so much more than they were offering Paula? I don’t understand the politics, I guess.

The two deals are completely different. Paula is a tv personality. Ryan’s deal includes development and a whole host of other things.

I am very disappointed that they signed Kara and are not signing Paula. It is just about fairness.

Well, Kara signed on for some cheap money. It’s not unheard of even down at your local office to lay off the guys with the big salaries and bring in someone younger who will work much cheaper. Maybe it’s not really fair, but it happens in business all the time.

Plus, we have no clue what’s gone on behind the scenes. We don’t know all of the details. For all we know, they might have other reasons for not wanting her back.

I’m proud of her for holding her ground, but this just completely sucks!

What ground? 3 mill is not enough? Oh well, sorry Paula. Go sell more stuff on ebay and QVC. How much money does one need for a useless occupation?

I’m not against making money. Wish I made more. I just don’t see her as valuable as she thinks she is.

oh wow! sad to see her go. but i did call it! whoop for me!

washpd
Aug 5th, 2009 at 12:26 am
I don’t get people saying that the show is on its last legs. Have the ratings dropped? Yes, but so have ratings for all of television. It was still the highest-rated show, and it still made a TON of money for producers, sponsors, and the network. I don’t believe the show is going anywhere.

This is my read; Simon will leave next year, Fox knows it. I suspect they’ve known for a year at least. The day Simon leaves, Idol folds.

sorry to read about Paula leaving the show. I dislike Kara even more now.

Strange there was no mention of Adam Lambert in the press release …

edit:knock off the defensiveness. that just earned you a time out.

You make some good points, SpenserJ, but it still just doesn’t feel right to me. Maybe they are tired of the semi scandals, some of which may or may not be her fault, ie, Corey whathisname’s claim that he had an affair with her, the Jason Castro critique before he sang, the woman who died in her lawn, the constant insinuations that she is drunk or high on the show. Do you think that Simon, Ryan, or Randy have any clout in helping her stay or seeing her go?

This is my read; Simon will leave next year, Fox knows it. I suspect they’ve known for a year at least. The day Simon leaves, Idol folds.

Even with it’s small loss of ratings, AI still brings in a shit-ton of ad revenue. They’re not folding up that tent willingly until they’ve exhausted every effort. Even if Simon left, they’d still try to give it a go.

And isn’t it ironic that Paula has just come off what many critics view as her most lucid performance season ever.

It’s not ironic, it’s the first thing people do when they are renegociating contracts.
It’s very common in sports to see players perform at their best in their last year of contract, I am sure Paula had the same strategy.

edit: STAY ON TOPIC

I’m proud of her for holding her ground, but this just completely sucks!

That is called cutting off your nose to spite your face or more obviously, Paula’s ego is a whole lot bigger than her talent and value.

I agree with MJ that this is all about the money.
There is nothing altruistic about the decisions the show and the judges will make regarding the contracts. The show has the upper hand here – not the judges – certainly not Paula.

It will not be the judges that will produce the ratings , it will be the kind of contestants that will play out on the TV screens . There will be gimmicks but they need good enough raw material (contestants) to work with their script- they need to get their audience really invested in the talent . I think the show is recognizing this and will be extra sharp in putting in contestants /talent for Season 9. If they can do this, regardless of who are the judges – they will have another profitable year.

They should also probably ask previous American Idol winners or finalists as guest judges. There must be some witty ones out there. They can change them week to week dependent on the theme. They will be cheap and will allow people to be more invested in the show as their presence will recall previous seasons.

Do you think that Simon, Ryan, or Randy have any clout in helping her stay or seeing her go?

For all we know, they could totally be on board with her leaving. What people say in the press and what they say in the boardroom are not always the same thing.

But no, unless they pulled the old “we’re not coming back without her”, I don’t think either of them have a say in any of that.

This could purely be speculation, but the Cleveland news said Jennifer lopez was rumored to be replacing Paula. Anyone else hear this?

Why do people blame Kara for Paula leaving? It isn’t HER fault that Paula chose to leave and happened to have been ASKED by the producers to come and judge on the show. There is no valid reason to blame Kara for Paula leaving and its dumb to say “Oh, I hate Kara more now.” It isn’t her fault.

I can’t help but side with her in this situation because I think a large part of the reason they weren’t offering her as much money as Ryan was because she’s a woman. And women just get paid less… in general, not just in the entertainment business. Women don’t negotiate as much. They think, “maybe I’m not worth that much,” or, “well, it’s this or nothing.” And yeah, maybe it is, but if they had just paid Paula her $12 million, which she is definitely worth to the show, it would’ve been better for both her and the show. They could’ve cycled Randy off the next year and brought new blood in then. So whatever. It’s the show’s loss as well as Paula’s. I’m glad Paula stood up for herself. It stands for something.

There is no valid reason to blame Kara for Paula leaving and its dumb to say ‘Oh, I hate Kara more now.’  It isn’t her fault.

I like Kara. She’s always sober. Maybe this was their back-up plan. Maybe they saw the writing on the wall with Paula, and Kara was just insurance. Either way, she’s such an insignificant player in this game that you really can’t pin the blame on her.

Ya’ll have more cynical and smart minds than me. I’d never even noticed this pattern..LOL

It’s what I mainly watch for (I’m sad, I know). I have a lot of other randomness I notice (like how rare there are mentions about anything happening post-Idol by Simon — it’s less frequent than you’d think), but this isn’t a knoll, so I will shush now.

This is my read; Simon will leave next year, Fox knows it. I suspect they’ve known for a year at least. The day Simon leaves, Idol folds.

That’s my opinion as well. As much as I am a fantard for Nigel, I have to disagree with him about the show and I do think Simon is synonymous with Idol for most people. I do think that they wouldn’t necessarily stop AI if Simon did X-Factor, but if what happened in the UK is any indicator, X-Factor killed Pop Idol (that and lack of any contestants doing anything noteworthy post-Idol). Fox would probably try and make as much money off X-Factor.

edit: and you’ll be doing that from the sidelines, because you are now in moderation

I like Paula well enough. I think that if a show is going to have a Simon, they have to have a Paula in order to be psychologically bearable for most mentally healthy people to watch. But I assume that she has made the decision that is in her best interests, so good luck to her with whatever it is that comes next for her. I once heard a radio interview where reading between the lines, it sounded like she might be thinking of doing some kind of regular Vegas show, or something like that.
Her favorites were Adam and Danny this year, and those guys are my favorites too. Neither one of them has sold out any arenas on their own at this point, so I think it’s early days to mock her quite yet. We’ll see.

Animated. I like your idea of having previous winners as guest judges like they used to do other singers. David Cook is witty. I would love to see him as a guest judge, but I don’t think they would be willing to be brutally honest. It is hard to give someone an honest critique especially as the competition goes on and fans are invested in one contestant or another. From about top four or five on to the finals there are literally millions of fans who live and die with each of the contestants. I still haven’t forgiven Kara for telling Kris that Man in the Mirror was completely the wrong song for him. Thank goodness Paula completely disagreed as did Simon and Randy. A current performer needs fans. They can’t really afford to turn someone off by a comment made towards another singer. Only a Gene Simmons would feel comfortable doing that.

I can’t help but sympathize with her in this situation because I think part of the reason they weren’t offering her as much money as Ryan was because she’s a woman. And women just get paid less’ ¦ in general, not just in the entertainment business.

I disagree. I’m all for equitable pay, but I don’t think that situation applies here at all. Ryan’s job is much more difficult than Paula’s. And, he pulls it off flawlessly week after week. She’s never had a show where she didn’t stumble on her own words. Ryan is the best live tv host in the business right now. He keeps that show running like a well oiled machine (even with that shitty director throwing him curve balls). He’s far more valuable to the business than she is.

And again – his deal wasn’t just for hosting Idol. There were other things involved. It’s a multi-media deal.

I think Paula has just pulled a Suzanne Somers. Yes, she’s holding out for more money (which in my opinion she deserves) – but it’s gonna backfire. Somers was sure ‘Three’s Company’ couldn’t exist w/o her character. She was right (the show really fell apart when she left) – but she lost the gig anyway. Same with Paula, I fear. Not that it matters. W/o reinvention – Idol has jumped the shark, methinks. Still…..Paula just made a huge mistake (IMO).

At least Paula was spirited, unpredictable, genuine, funny, spontaneous.

And a dumbass.

I like Kara. She’s always sober. Maybe this was their back-up plan. Maybe they saw the writing on the wall with Paula, and Kara was just insurance. Either way, she’s such an insignificant player in this game that you really can’t pin the blame on her.

I think this was the plan all along.

I have a lot of other randomness I notice (like how rare there are mentions about anything happening post-Idol by Simon ‘” it’s less frequent than you’d think), but this isn’t a knoll, so I will shush now.

No knoll here either. Simon just doesn’t care. He makes his money from the show. Any proceeds post Idol are minimal to his riches.

I don’t think 1 week did any of them say her vocal was bad.Lots of other stuff but not that.

I didn’t say they did. I said that they said what Allison was wearing was bad to AVOID talking about how awesome she was.

Why do people blame Kara for Paula leaving? It isn’t HER fault that Paula chose to leave and happened to have been ASKED by the producers to come and judge on the show. There is no valid reason to blame Kara for Paula leaving and its dumb to say ‘Oh, I hate Kara more now.’  It isn’t her fault.

Thank you! This is not Kara’s fault. This was a Paula/TPTB decision.

With Paula gone, I think Simon is going to be more antagonistic towards Kara. Maybe Randy should be between them.

Simon is gone after his contract expires. Yeah, they’ll continue the show, but do you think Randy is going to pull them in? But maybe this will be the year of lucid Randy.

Weren’t all of the judges favorites Adam and Danny this year? I think all of them said at one time or another that Kris could do really well in the competition, was a dark horse, was an artist, etc., etc., but off camera interviews they all, especially Simon, kept coming back to Adam and Danny and on camera they manipulated as much as humanly possible even outright telling voters to vote for Adam. Still people who watch AI do not want to be told who to vote for and when it begins to feel unfair they perversely vote for someone else. But, my point, I guess, is that it wasn’t just Paula. Simon was every bit as much in the Adam/Danny camp as Paula.

Ryan’s job is much more difficult than Paula’s. And, he pulls it off flawlessly week after week. She’s never had a show where she didn’t stumble on her own words.

Paula’s incoherency was part of her persona, for some it was part of her charm, and as such it was part of her worth to the show. It’s not about how difficult the job is, or else the band members and editors of the show would be paid a lot more. It’s about how much of a ratings draw you are, in the short term as well as the long term, and I think as that Paula was worth as much or more than Ryan.

Simon just doesn’t care. He makes his money from the show.

In the off season, he’s on vacation, not giving a shit. Or, filming a whole other show in another country, still not giving a shit LOL.

Paula was a pop star. Kara never was. Kara screwed up her lines plenty. Kara doesn’t have the chemistry with the other judges.

I’ll admit, I’m very surprised. I find it hard to feel bad for Paula if all of this is because she decided not to come back due to the fact the show refused to cough up millions, but…Idol without Paula seems weird, even if I didn’t watch it very often. The show has always had a very defined dynamic and formula, and Paula was so much a part of that.

I truly can’t see her on another show. Maybe her jewelry line is doing well? I know little about it, but she tweets about it often. I wish her luck.

Do you really think Idol would end after next year? Ryan signed a three year deal, right? This is a general question to everyone, because this has been brought up a few times.

I disagree. I’m all for equitable pay, but I don’t think that situation applies here at all. Ryan’s job is much more difficult than Paula’s. And, he pulls it off flawlessly week after week. She’s never had a show where she didn’t stumble on her own words. Ryan is the best live tv host in the business right now. He keeps that show running like a well oiled machine (even with that shitty director throwing him curve balls). He’s far more valuable to the business than she is.

And again – his deal wasn’t just for hosting Idol. There were other things involved. It’s a multi-media deal.

Ditto. The real comparison would be between Randy and Paula. If Randy was making a whole lot more than Paula and didn’t have any other shows in the works for the money as Paula doesn’t, then their pay should be about equal. If it isn’t, then there is something to wonder about. Anyone remember that Paula supposedly auditioned to be the host of kid Idol in its one season run. She was a disaster. Ryan’s job is much more difficult that anyone’s.

It’s about how much of a ratings draw you are, in the short term as well as the long term, and I think as that Paula was worth as much or more than Ryan.

That’s what it’s all about. If I watch Idol next season, it certainly won’t be for Kara. I don’t wish her any ill will, but I would tune in for Simon, Ryan, and Paula.

I don’t think the show will end after next year, but the ratings will drop significantly. NCIS is smiling :) But who knows anything can happen.

ETA: When is Randy’s contract expiring?

I actually don’t think Ryan did such a great job this season. I’ve been a fan of his
since Season 1 of AI, but I thought he was a rude ass on a number of
occasions this season. Ryan is not all that. I think his job is replaceable.

If Randy was making a whole lot more than Paula and didn’t have any other shows in the works for the money as Paula doesn’t, then their pay should be about equal.

In no world should Randy and Paula’s pay be equal. Paula is several times the ratings draw that Randy is. Paula is to Randy as Simon is to Paula. People care about Paula, one way or the other, with more on the positive side. Hardly anyone would give a damn if Randy left. IF they were offering Paula numbers similar to Randy, what an insult, and I would stand by my original claim. Sexism in salary.

Paula will be fine. She has money to last a lifetime, and will be able to earn a few million one way or another with her other endeavors. I wish her luck.

edit: that bit of snottery put you in moderation

It’s not all about the money.Paula-for whatever has been said about her competence as a judge and as an artist-has worked for this industry for years and years.She deserves respect for having endured and achieved unbelievable success in the pop music industry as well as in the dance world.

I’m sure she has all the money she needs right now.She doesn’t strike me as money-hungry.It’s about sticking to her principles.If she reneges on this statement and goes back, her self-respect and self-worth may take a blow…so I don’t think she’ll be back.

I hope Simon puts his money where his mouth is…he did say he won’t be back if Paula isn’t back.

I guess I like Paula. I loved that she recognized the genius in David Cook last year before any of the other judges, even before Billy Jean. I think she does have an eye for talent. She isn’t the most coherent speaker, but if you listen to the contestants, they all seem to love her. I think she spends more time with them off camera too giving them advice and suggestions. I really disagreed with Kara many times this season, but rarely disagreed with Paula, provided I could understand what she was saying. LOL As for Randy and Simon, Randy sometimes seemed to kind of zone out and then resort to his “a little pitchy for me, dawg” or “wrong song choice” rather than actually giving any real critique. Simon is the heart of the show, like him or hate him. Not to downplay the importance of talented contestants, but I think as many people tune in, particularly early in the season, for Simon’s blunt critiques than for the singers themselves.

Wow that’s really shocking!
I didn’t expect it to really happen.
If it is so that it’s just a ploy – why would she tweet that she decided not to return? That would be stupid.
As I will be headed to college soon, I’m not sure how much Idol I will get to see this coming season, even online. (I’ll try to keep up online, though it won’t be as exciting and I obv. won’t be able to obtain another favorite since it’s just not the same online, but I’m def. gonna try my best to keep up).

The show will survive no doubt, but it just would never be the same. Paula has to return and I think it’d be stupid if she didn’t.

I don’t think it’s a coincidence that she started tweeting just as the Idol concert in DC was ending’“knowing there would be a large crowd of Idol fans following the concert on twitter.

Hmmm. I wonder if this is why Michael tweeted that there would be no Idols at the barricades after the show. TPTB knew this was coming and nobody wanted the Idols to face a barrage of questions.

Too bad this happened just before the GMA event because you know it will steal focus. Still, if it steals focus from Michael Jackson home videos that should have been kept private (vultures!) then I’m all for it.

Let’s see what Simon does now… he is on record saying he would not do the show with out Randy,Paula, and Ryan

Paula’s a ‘dumbass,’  Matt? Wow. Harsh. I wonder if you’d apply the same to Randy?

As a matter of fact, I would.

Sigh, I just realized there will be no more Paula choreographed group numbers :/

As a matter of fact, I would.

lol. Equal opportunity scorn :)

I think Paula has a great instinct in spotting who’s got “it,” having been a star in her own right. She has trouble articulating it, but her instincts are spot on.

In no world should Randy and Paula’s pay be equal. Paula is several times the ratings draw that Randy is. Paula is to Randy as Simon is to Paula. People care about Paula, one way or the other, with more on the positive side. Hardly anyone would give a damn if Randy left. IF they were offering Paula numbers similar to Randy, what an insult, and I would stand by my original claim.

I think if Paula was that huge ratings draw, Hey Paula would have been a ratings draw as well. It wasn’t. In fact, the ratings were dismal at best. Secondly, what is the draw? If people are watching her because she’s a train wreck, maybe that’s not the draw the network is really looking for. Maybe Paula is a whole lot more trouble than she’s worth.

Looks like she will now be able to commit to the HSN, Hey Paula and cheerleading shows…

Maybe a last minute addition to Dancing with the Stars (cast revealed Aug 17) :ponder_tb:

I’m proud of her for holding her ground, but this just completely sucks!

What ground? 3 mill is not enough? Oh well, sorry Paula. Go sell more stuff on ebay and QVC. How much money does one need for a useless occupation?

I’m not against making money. Wish I made more. I just don’t see her as valuable as she thinks she is.

It’s just sad to me. The guys always make more money. And Paula is definitely a
darling to the show.

Is it odd that none of the other judges have commented on this?

Let’s see what Simon does now’ ¦ he is on record saying he would not do the show with out Randy,Paula, and Ryan

Actually, this last time he was asked about it, he said he thought Paula would be signed but he didn’t give that old song and dance about not doing the show if she wasn’t. My guess is the biggest sigh of relief is being heard across the ocean over this news.

iluvai Aug 5th, 2009 at 1:02 am

I actually don’t think Ryan did such a great job this season. I’ve been a fan of his
since Season 1 of AI, but I thought he was a rude ass on a number of
occasions this season. Ryan is not all that. I think his job is replaceable.

Ryan does a decent job. The scripts are the problem.

I agree with iluvai about this. It is easy with anonymity to say really outrageous things. I’m not so sure that the forefathers were thinking about internet chats when they put freedom of speech in the Constitution. Back in those days you had to face the people you were dissing and they had a chance to respond. Now we feel perfectly comfortable saying extremely hurtful and nasty things to each other and particularly about people in the public eye and chalk it up to “it goes with the territory”. It makes you wonder what happened to common courtesy and kindness. I guess that was a bygone age, too.

I will miss Paula Abdul if she in fact does not return. The best thing Kara did all year, in my opinion, was outsinging bikini girl. Other than that, she didn’t seem to add anything significant to the show, again in my opinion. Randy, Simon, and Paula have a strange kind of balance that has worked well for seven seasons. I was sorry they messed with it this year and thought it threw things off a bit. I was actually hoping they would just go back to the old format without Kara.

I think if Paula was that huge ratings draw, Hey Paula would have been a ratings draw as well. It wasn’t. In fact, the ratings were dismal at best. Secondly, what is the draw? If people are watching her because she’s a train wreck, maybe that’s not the draw the network is really looking for. Maybe Paula is a whole lot more trouble than she’s worth.

Paula’s draw apart from Idol is not as strong as her draw as a part of Idol. A lot of the draw is her rapport with Simon. Hey Randy! would’ve done exponentially worse, too–not that it means much, because once again, it’s their worth as a part of Idol that matters.

Her loopiness gives people something to talk about. It’s controversial, it’s interesting. People care about Paula, one way or the other, in a way that they don’t care about Randy. As for it being “a whole lot more trouble than she’s worth,” why? What bad things ever happened because of her stumbling over words or being inarticulate? Nothing. It stirred controversy, which increased interest in the show. She’s been much more articulate this season. And once again, her instincts are always spot on.

Once again, I think she deserved the money she was asking for. If they tried to give her Randy-like numbers, instead of Ryan-like numbers, then it wasn’t fair to her at all. But they’d already chosen Kara as her replacement. It wasn’t a good decision, imo. I doubt many people will immediately stop watching Idol because of it, but it will be part of the erosion of Idol’s draw.

I thought this was going to happen when I saw they confirmed Kara was returning and zero news on Paula. With the Judge Audition round starting up very soon, this past weekend was probably the deadline for negotiations.

I not going to say I’m sad to see her go. IMO she has been on the decline these past two seasons. She’s been more of a cheerleader than a judge.

ShariG , I understand your point. But I think a former contestant may have a more sympathetic approach at making critiques as they would have gone through the grind. But your are right, he or she will need to have the confidence to take any flak that may result. Judging in this case, is merely voicing an opinion – not all will agree with what you think.

Going back to Paula’s case – seems like Paula made a bluff and the show called it off.
Sounds pretty ruthless but that is the way business is. If cost analysis will show your presence is not profitable you will not be around for long.

I disagree. I’m all for equitable pay, but I don’t think that situation applies here at all. Ryan’s job is much more difficult than Paula’s. And, he pulls it off flawlessly week after week. She’s never had a show where she didn’t stumble on her own words. Ryan is the best live tv host in the business right now. He keeps that show running like a well oiled machine (even with that shitty director throwing him curve balls). He’s far more valuable to the business than she is.

I totally agree with this (well, except for the part about the director throwing curve balls. I think he’s actually throwing wild pitches that sometimes end up headed straight for the dugout, but Ryan digs them out of dirt to keep his team in the game).

I like Paula, but I’m not upset she’s leaving. She has her moments, but then she has her share of childishness that takes the focus of the Idol. I think this move will keep all the judges on their game. The producers aren’t afraid to nix one if they aren’t pulling their weight (Randy) or are just phoning it in (Simon).

And I don’t think I’m being sexist. I think that Cat is much more important than the many of the male judges on SYTYCD. I just think hosts add their own nuance to the show while judges sometimes think the show is all about them.

I’m really not enjoying the Paula bashing. (I know it’s totally
acceptable on the blog. lol) I’ll check things out later.

(Two idol concerts this weekend– I can’t wait!!!)

“If she had any respect for the contestants, she wouldn’t pull her stupid stunts, with props no less. ”

So, why does Simon not take any blame for his part?

“That means that Simon is leaving next year when his contract is up. I could totally imagine him bringing Xfactor to the US and signing Paula on that to try and bring in the Idol audience”

This might happen….

“They should also probably ask previous American Idol winners or finalists as guest judges. There must be some witty ones out there.”

Maybe Matt, if he does well with his hosting of the Michigan contest?

terps Aug 5th, 2009 at 1:15 am

Is it odd that none of the other judges have commented on this?

They are a bunch of hired hacks who could give a deuce about Paula. If she left because of money, which certainly appears to be the case, then blame (or credit) for her exit falls on the people who attached such ridiculous values to Simon’s and Ryan’s services.

To really judge this you’d need to know what they offered and what Paula’s people were asking for. Since we’ll never get the true numbers it is kind of silly to point fingers.

They should also probably ask previous American Idol winners or finalists as guest judges. There must be some witty ones out there.

I want to see Adam judge, sometime in the far future. I think he could do a good job.

We also have to remember how much this show stood by her thourgh everything. The sex with a contestant thing, her clearly comming to work on something, her not knowing what was just sung. This show has stood by her thourgh all of her antics as well as promoted her new songs and jewelery

IMO, Ryan deserves to be paid more than Simon. He handles pressure situations effortlessly and improvises a lot. On top of that, he’s hilarious. He’s just extremely talented at what he does and he would be the hardest person on the show to replace. All IMO of course.

Here’s to hoping Randy goes next year. I want judges who have more than two or three critiques in their repertoire or at least act sober.

Clearly, the Idols have been placed on lockdown by TPTB, b/c they have been tweeting this evening (I know, shocking), but have yet to mention Paula and obviously they know b/c everyone else in the twitterverse knows. I expect an official statement from them tomorrow, or maybe they won’t be able to say anything at all.

Whatever you have to say about Paula, she tried and she cared. Randy reads from his own script, which is basically comprised of, Ive said it before, I’ll say it again, I am sounding like a broken record (YA THINK?), but if you can sing you can sing and dawg you can sing or you can sing your brains out or whatever variation that includes being in or out of the zone, due to pitchiness or lack thereof (or maybe it was just awright for me.) For me for you for me That’s all.

That’s about it. I can’t think of anything on point he said about anyone except that he could see Adam being a current relevant artist. Which, duh, we didn’t need him to tell us. Next year, Randy’s gone, Kara’s gone, and Simon’s gone, so Idol’s gone. Simon does a variation of X Factor, Kara continues in the industry, Ryan continues being Ryan and working 7 days/week, and Randy fades into obscurity.

And…scene.

I will miss Paula Abdul if she in fact does not return. The best thing Kara did all year, in my opinion, was outsinging bikini girl.

That was awesome. LOL!!!

Randy, Simon, and Paula have a strange kind of balance that has worked well for seven seasons. I was sorry they messed with it this year and thought it threw things off a bit. I was actually hoping they would just go back to the old format without Kara.

Yep me too. Don’t get rid of Paula! It’s the format of the show that needs changing up. And they really messed things up with putting judges comments over and above contestant performances. More singing next year please!!!!

Wow, so it’s real. I’m shocked, I really am. And the show won’t be the same without her. There’s no heart left at the judge’s table now.

The press release about Kara yesterday must’ve felt like a real slap in the face to her, with all the talk of Kara championing~ Adam.

I hope they keep it three judges and don’t replace her.

I could see Paula being a judge on the X-factor if it comes. But I think Simons first choice would be Sharon Osborn (former x-factor judge), Plus he might want an all new set of characters

They should also probably ask previous American Idol winners or finalists as guest judges. There must be some witty ones out there.

IMO, former winners would have to be idiots to appear as judges on this show. If they didn’t love everything every contestant did, there would be a fan jihad against them. Just look at what happened to Cook when he said complimentary things about two of this year’s crop when one of the things he said was deemed to be more complimentary. Imagine if he’d said something negative about a contestant during the competition (plus there would be all sorts of “How dare he? Doesn’t he remember what it was like to be a contestant. Why must he hurt the chances of somebody just starting out. He’s probably jealous and afraid that so-and-so is going to outsell him?”). Fantasia might be the only one who might say something negative (mainly because she’s already stared down the heap-o-criticism she received for being human and because she’s so fierce, she doesn’t care). Maybe Taylor would too because it’s not like he can sell many fewer CDs. He might even get a bump as part of the injured fan base buy up his CDs so they can crush them.

I would like to see former winners/contestants as mentors, though. Mentors are allowed to be positive about everybody.

This is sad! I love Paula. And yes, I think her critiques this season were the best. I don’t hate Kara but I didn’t see any chemistry between her and the show.
TV salaries are outlandsih, but with what the Idol franchise makes, Paula should have gotten her 10 mil to come back. It’s a drop in the bucket for Freemantle!

BTW,

I didn’t realize that he ran the rehearsals.. I still find him obnoxious. At least when Paula didn’t appear sober, we at least could ignore her. :)

You are correct. Ryan doesn’t run rehearsals. Debbie does. However, I think Ryan is a great host.

Ryan is now tweeting on the subject… he has talked to Randy… he is very saddened, can’t imagine a table without her

One thing I can say postive about Paula is that the number she choreographed for the contestants this season was the best group number of Season 8. Most of them really weren’t good. Maybe because of the diversity of voices and styles, which is kind of cool at the concert, the group numbers just didn’t sound good. I downloaded most of the group numbers from season 7 and not a single one from season 8. Were they available on I Tunes this year? I didn’t look for them.

:O

Wow. I’ll miss Paula!

@suebrody: your last post was very, very funny!!! I think I’ll crash now. Thanks for giving me a big smile!!!! Cheers!!!

if this is really true, then wow. I for one don’t think its right that she leave. She has undeniably been an integral part in what makes American Idol what it is and she deserves to be paid as much as anyone else on there…I feel this way especially after watching this season how supportive she was of Adam (one of the best, arguably THE best AI contestant ever)…she supported him all the way through and some of her reactions to his performances were priceless and frankly just funny and entertaining… cynical Simon, on the other hand, was too worried about keeping his reputation on the show rather than seeing the talent that was staring him in the face… he nearly always calculates his response to a contestant with the sole purpose of setting himself apart from the other judges…despite what his initial reaction might be…give me a fucking break…If there is anything I dislike more than being manipulated, it is being AWARE that I am being manipulated…I think initially he was just being brutally honest and had a sincere interest in what was best for the show but now I just think he wants to keep filling up his pockets… I found myself disagreeing with him a lot more this season out of the few others I have watched..and I also found the judges contradicted themselves a lot…anyone else agree?
Paula provides a lot of moral support for the contestants and gives off a lot of positive energy and that is valuable in a competition on such a massive scale like AI…
I also don’t blame Kara (I actually think she is smart and she made some really good observations, plus it was only her first season…) and excluding that horrible No Boundaries song I think she made her contribution to the show…I just dont see why the AI producers want to change something that has been working fine for the show…”if its not broke, dont fix it” I say…
I agree with someone that posted above it was brave of Paula to stick to her guns and not settle for less money…considering what everyone else is getting paid the show…
I’m still not fully convinced though they may just be trying to get attention and cause some controversy so the ratings wont plummet this coming season…although I suspect they will anyways lol…maybe Paula was smart in striking while the iron is still hot after all…maybe she’s ready to move on..who knows

Next year, Randy’s gone, Kara’s gone, and Simon’s gone, so Idol’s gone. Simon does a variation of X Factor, Kara continues in the industry, Ryan continues being Ryan and working 7 days/week, and Randy fades into obscurity.

Possible, but with 25 million viewers, I think it will last a few more years. But people will look back and say this was the beginning of the end. Kind of inevitable, and, at least we got Kelly, David Cook and Adam out of the show.

Sarver has now tweeted about Paula, too.

michaelsarver1I am sad to see Paula not coming back to idol. It will be the contestants that suffer the most. She was a loving mother to us and I can’t…

michaelsarver1picture AI without her. We love u Paula.

Oh, I like that idea, too, Kirsten. Former winners as mentors would be good. I can see Kelly, Carrie, Taylor, and David in that role.

I

think the contestants needed the balance. Simon and Paula. Paula was always there for the love and support. Simon was there for the reality: it’s a tough business. Between the both of them, there was a balance. I hope Paula gets what she wants, but I’m not watching next year anyway. Adam took too much out of my life. After eight years, Paula and I will say good-bye to AI. At least Paula is going out on a high. From day one, she predicted great things for Adam, and I know Adam will always remember that.

That was so sweet.

Really though, when you look at the show they haven’t found any MEGA stars since Carrie. Some people might disagree, but out off all the people to come from this show, they are the most recognizable and heard . It might be time for a change (turn it into X-factor)

We also got Carrie, Ruben, Fantasia, and Kris Allen out of the show.

We also got Carrie, Ruben, Fantasia, and Kris Allen out of the show.

agree (and Daughtry)

Oh, I like that idea, too, Kirsten. Former winners as mentors would be good. I can see Kelly, Carrie, Taylor, and David in that role.

I would love to see former winners as mentors. They’ve gone through Idol and they know what works.

They have found plenty of great people, I just don’t want it to end! There is more talent to be found. I just hope Idol can keep going strong and last a couple more seasons. Maybe Paula will sign back another season, but who knows. I think we all need to give Randy, Kara, and Simon a chance.

haven’t read all the msgs on this thread..but want to say, that Paula leaving makes me a little sad! i dont take her judging too seriously but i love looking forward to what she wears on the show. whether its that green satiny lingerie thingy she was wearing on the finale night or the really cute dress she wore during her dancing, she’s got style! she was the nicest of all the judges.

the only thing i didnt like was her constant fawning over danny and adam like she wanted to marry those guys but even this, i found pretty amusing.

Since Randy, Simon, and Kara all have contracts that expire after next season, they *could* all very well leave.

I think it may be a good thing, at least for the Idol alumni. There’s been this cycle of in which they’re forgotten once the new season starts and new favorites are chosen… maybe if Idol ends the fans will stay more invested with the past winners.

Also, if Simon leaves, which he said he would if Paula left… I’m pretty sure he’d start/join/develop a new, similar talent show in the vein of American Idol.

I am really sad about Paula leaving the show. I just today read a short interview someone did a little while back with Danny regarding Paula. His quote is below (I don’t know if it’s been previously posted):

Danny did not hesitate or hedge. Says Gokey, ‘I think they need to bring her back. I think they need to up her contract. It’s none of my business, I should make that clear. She brings compassion and kindness that the show needs. She’s the only one that really brings that. It’s a very balanced show with all the judges bringing different emotions and different flavors. The show will not be the same without her.’ 

I agree with everything he said. I really didn’t think they’d let her go. I know she’s loopy, but I liked her anyway. I will miss her.

#signmattgiraud is trending at #3!

Matt fans are so cool. I am so happy for him!

I am very sad about Paula. The show will def suffer without her. JMHO.

Simon was there for the reality: it’s a tough business.

I think part if this is true but I think Simon went beyond that in a way because American Idol is so different from the rest of the music industry…AI is like its own music factory bubble-type thing idk…it creates overnight sensations and the contestants are put in this bubble…and once they are off the show is when they really enter the music business…but the AI association affects everything…plus I think the idea of the ideal Idol has changed over the years..so I think Simon’s role is concentrated more within the boundaries of the show itself…though I think this season especially he made a lot of references to ”the outside world’ and being a relevant recording artist…I just appreciate Paula for her sincere reactions…especially after I heard her say on some interview that out of all the judges she is the only actual artist/performer and knows what its like to be on a stage and that’s why she feels for the contestants more and she’s totally right…I think once you take that into account it makes more sense even though she’s more of a dancer than a singer…I guess there will be no more fun geographies for the contestants lol

oooooh this is soooo hilarious! i went on to my national newspaper website to check out headlines for today and i get this!

Paula Abdul quits American Idol

http://www.dailymirror.lk/DM_BLOG/Sections/frmNewsDetailView.aspx?ARTID=57028

this was the first breaking news so i’m guessing Paula quitting AI is actually VERY VERY VERY IMPORTANT! more so that Obama’s birthday even!

Danny did not hesitate or hedge. Says Gokey, ‘I think they need to bring her back. I think they need to up her contract. It’s none of my business, I should make that clear. She brings compassion and kindness that the show needs. She’s the only one that really brings that. It’s a very balanced show with all the judges bringing different emotions and different flavors. The show will not be the same without her.

Oh, Danny. Stop making me like you more and more! It was fun hating you, darnit. But that was very well said.

he nearly always calculates his response to a contestant with the sole purpose of setting himself apart from the other judges’ ¦despite what his initial reaction might be’ ¦

I see that too.

If there is anything I dislike more than being manipulated, it is being AWARE that I am being manipulated’ ¦

Yep. I always thought that his reaction to Adam’s ROF was contrived. I think he loved it, but had to play the bad guy.

maybe Paula was smart in striking while the iron is still hot after all’ ¦maybe she’s ready to move on..who knows

Maybe. If so, then I’m happy for her.

i wouldnt be surprised if this was a negotiation ploy. however, it might backfire on paula, as Fox might realize that its best to shake things up. and for those who are afraid the show will lack crazy/wtf moments….two words for you..kara ;) she is a dream come true for the bloopers reel.

lets get the show back on track…..more hollywood week, less BS btw the judges unless they are actually arguing the merit of the contestants and not throwing random insults at each other, show the auditions of all those who have made the semis, a semi round of 20 not 36, etc. im tired of hearing about simon, paula, randy, seacrest…this show is NOT about them.

sad to say…. im actually glad this has happened. the show needed a major change and the dynamic of simon/paula/randy was growing stale.

now, if only she can take stupid Ken with her………

Bye paula. Ä ±t was over when they bought kara on board. The only two that matter are SÄ ±mon and Ryan. StÄ ±ll Ä ±t wÄ ±ll not be the same cheesy show wÄ ±thout her. her crÄ ±me was beÄ ±ng too nutty and gettÄ ±ng old.

Simon is older than Paula!!!!!:(

Bye paula. Ä ±t was over when they bought kara on board. The only two that matter are SÄ ±mon and Ryan. StÄ ±ll Ä ±t wÄ ±ll not be the same cheesy show wÄ ±thout her. her crÄ ±me was beÄ ±ng too nutty and gettÄ ±ng old.

her crÄ ±me was beÄ ±ng too nutty and gettÄ ±ng old.

Oh gosh, 47, so old.

That said though, only Ryan has gotten better with age. Simon was better in the beginning, too. Randy… definitely.

Also, when ppl mentioned Ken, I only realized five minutes later who they were talking about. I kept thinking about Barbie’s boyfriend.

And Ä ° do not thÄ ±nk the show wÄ ±ll be better wÄ ±thout her. It wÄ ±ll be worse as SÄ ±mon and Ken really go for the low not the hÄ ±gh Ä ±n entertaÄ ±nment. Paula was the more unpredÄ ±ctable heart and Kara wÄ ±ll be the package artÄ ±st expert. ThÄ ±s Ä ±s for real because they are gettÄ ±ng close to fÄ ±lmÄ ±ng the judges for audÄ ±tÄ ±ons.

sorry for all the comments but no edÄ ±t and few caps here. Ä ± am sure paula dÄ ±d not chose to leave but they fÄ ±red her. or she couldnot stay and make less money than the rest by a wÄ ±de margÄ ±n so she had to quÄ ±t.

Also, when ppl mentioned Ken, I only realized five minutes later who they were talking about. I kept thinking about Barbie’s boyfriend.

LOL

sorry for all the comments but no edÄ ±t and few caps here. Ä ± am sure paula dÄ ±d not chose to leave but they fÄ ±red her. or she couldnot stay and make less money than the rest by a wÄ ±de margÄ ±n so she had to quÄ ±t.

thought the same thing

I have not the time read through all the comments, but want to mention that I think this has the potential to make a lot of women uneasy about Idol.

It plays out with two scenarios a lot of women can sympathize with:

- the replacement with a younger women

- getting a lot of fewer money than the men

This is hireible. I was okay with then adding kata lastcseason although I didn’t like her but I didn’t hatevhervi thought they would stay with 4 judges or cut kara and go back to 3. I thought this was her best season yet. As for her antics….. Its a reality show you don’t want it 2 be boring

anijsch: I was thinking the same thing. Screw “the boys club”, Paula. Write a tell all book and make millions!

Very sad. Nail in the coffin of my AI run. ‘s ok, I’ve only been around since S7 anyway, so no biggie. :-)

Aw, I’m saddened that Paula is leaving. Why couldn’t it be Kara? She ruined the show, IMO. Even though Paula is loopy at times, it adds to the show and her spats with Simon will be sorely missed. Come on Freemantle, open your purse strings. She’s worth it! It just won’t be the same. Kara is NO Paula. I don’t think anyone would miss her or Randy.

YEAH PAULA!! Do what you must, and hold to your principles. If you are not there, it will be a loss of kindness and flavour….and yes, a few Hijinks with the guy nexr to you. I will feel your absence acutely, because, for all your flaws, big or small, you are sooo real and you privide a very needed balance to jugements that are sometimes just out and out demeaning. I get it!…your roll is smaller than Ryans or Simons but you are not asking for what they have already been signed for.

Ryan may be a competent workaholic but he is coming across more each year as plastic as a KEN DOLL.
also, I am so tired of what I precieve to be homophobic bantering and one upmanship between he and Simon. So, if he must be snide, at least, be a equal opportunist and go after Randy and Kara too. I really liked him for seasons 1 & 2, but now that he thinks he is doing his own comedy schtick, (that is not funny and only appeals tothe lowest common denominator!!) he seems less of the cushion he claimed to be then against some of the harsher unconstructive declarations. So, He may be competent but his humanity meter is broken and I believe his soul hangs by a thread……Just Sayin!!!!!!!!!!!

This will teach me not to turn on my computer in the middle of the night. Now I will never get back to sleep after reading this disturbing, life-altering headline. Words fail me. It’s the end of an era. (All right, I did manage those six words, but I’m truly speechless.)

Sorry. My punctuation and some of my spelling just suck, but, time is ticking and I have a small wedding to plan.!! Cheers!!

I think Paula is leaving AI (if it is true) in the best possible moment.
Season 8 was incredible (I don’t know if the best because I didn’t see earliest seasons) taking into account many aspects: strong Top 10 contestants, stand out artists (Adam & Allison are freaks of nature in a good sense, Megan the most original voice and personality IMO), many many top artists as guest permormers, spectacular finale, Paula for the first time performed on AI, etc. Seasons to come are going to have a hard task to beat it.

Because of the above the whole thing is not entirely about the money – she may just feel fulfilled. Moreover, she will host some show (I don’t remember the title) and SYTYCD wants her on board.
So only the AI will suffer after her leaving.

I can’t bear: Paula is “replacable”. Things, like mjsbigblog, are but not people.

I partly agree that AI is all about contestants, not judges. Without Paula it wouldn’t be the same, because AI is some kind of reality show, not only singing competition (thats why it is so popular).

Still, I hope Paula will stay, although I don’t believe.

I agree on mentor stint for former Am Idols and finalists. Imagine what Adam would teach the new kids . It will be fun.

I do not mean to make light this matter of Paula going. But why do I feel that there will be a dramatic change of heart and she will be back in the fold ?

I do think they will be ditching Randy after next year.

Now, that wouldn’t be a bad idea. There are so many that could take over his job. Former Idols or finalists wouldn’t be a bad idea. I am wondering if this is being done to test waters and see how the fans react. I wouldn’t be surprised if she did return.

When Farrah Fawcett left Charlie’s Angels, they thought it would be the end of the show. It wasn’t. When Paula messed up with Jason in Season 7, I lost a lot of respect for her. There will be a drop in the ratings unless they find 24 extremely talented singers.

Don’t the judges round auditions in Denver start TOMORROW? I could be wrong and she’s already re-signed and they could just be milking this for publicity (still don’t understand why they’d NEED to do that though), but I don’t think she’ll be back. I thought that last time with her manager or whoever. It was already just getting TOO close to the start of judges round auditions for them to still be negotiating, IMO.

But yeah, the show itself is bigger than any contestant, judge, whatever. Sure the show will probably suffer some, but it’s not like ratings are going to fall off a cliff or something. The show will be fine. As will Paula.

i bet Simon is spending his Wednesday with tissues and chocolates nearby to console him from the loss of his lovely neighbour…maybe a box of crayons too….

noone to banter with or poke fun at or share a steamy kiss with anymore….

When Farrah Fawcett left Charlie’s Angels, they thought it would be the end of the show. It wasn’t. When Paula messed up with Jason in Season 7, I lost a lot of respect for her.

I agree. I have a feeling that when Paula went around bitching to the media about how the producers allowed her stalker to audition even though she begged them not to, that did her in. Even in the unreal world of Hollywood, you can’t diss your employer like that and expect a raise.

When Farrah Fawcett left Charlie’s Angels, they thought it would be the end of the show. It wasn’t. When Paula messed up with Jason in Season 7, I lost a lot of respect for her. There will be a drop in the ratings unless they find 24 extremely talented singers.

What did she do w Jason? Someone?

So sad about Paula. She was so much fun to watch every week.

Well I won’t be watching next season anyhow (I hadn’t watched AI until this year since AI2) but I do believe that AI is shooting themselves in the foot. They are messing with the chemistry that made the show work since Day 1 (well they started when they brought in Kara :rolleyes_wp:) Whacky as she might be sometimes, Paula was nurturing to the kids on the show and now it’s going to be missing that element. I don’t think Kara is a nurturing type…..personally I’ve got no use for her. Boring, boring, boring.

Good luck Paula!

[quote] partly agree that AI is all about contestants, not judges. [/quote]

Tell the judges that.

I wonder what Paula will do now? I liked her on the show but I realized that I could only handle her comments once so if I went online later to rewatch I had to skip her critique because my eyes started crossing!

Can’t believe we are stuck with Kara. The judging is going to be brutal now- at least Paula tempered critiques with compliments. WTF does Kara add? All season long I thought at least she would grace us with a good coronation song since her judging sucked, but nooooooooooo……..

What did she do w Jason? Someone

Last year, Paula critiqued Jason’s second song that he sang on the show before he even sang it. They called it Paula -gate because everyone pretty much realized that at the very least she had her comments pre- written and/or was going by what she saw in rehearsals.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9xF8BP45a6A

When Paula messed up with Jason in Season 7, I lost a lot of respect for her.

Me too. I thought she was a goner then. Only TPTB eased her out by training up Kara.
Even though tHis year was one of Paula’s better ones (spurred on by Kara’s presence, no doubt), I can’t say I’m sad to see her go.
Next to go – Randy!

Last year, Paula critiqued Jason’s second song that he sang on the show before he even sang it. They called it Paula -gate because everyone pretty much realized that at the very least she had her comments pre- written and/or was going by what she saw in rehearsals.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9xF8BP45a6A

WOW! that was embarrassing. S8 is the only season I’ve seen, so I’ve not seen that clip before; She looked high in that segment.

Thanks for posting the link Studio57.

What did she do w Jason? Someone?

Famous Paulagate of season 7…She critiqued his second song before he sang it. I thoughtshe was high as usual, and laughed my ass off.

It was just nutty Paula at her peak…maybe that was when the producers knew it was time to let her go? :mrgreen_wp:

It was a mistake, but I didnt hold it against her for too long…….

Besides….her telepathic critique was actually spot on! :laugh_tb:

I think Paula overplayed her hand. Her original demand was so excessive that it is difficult for her to back down without looking foolish. As for how much Ryan got paid, I don’t think you can underestimate how important it is for him to keep the show moving smoothly in a live show. It looks easy because he made it look easy.

And yes, put me down as one who would like to see Randy go as well. He should have gone instead of Paula because I do think Paula is the most knowledgeable of all the judges.

Anyway, here’s a few best-of moments of Paula -

http://www.guardian.co.uk/media/organgrinder/2009/aug/05/paula-abdul-american-idol-best-bits

Good riddance, greedy.

Just goes to show money came before her love for the show. Her time had come.

O come on…? Why in th world is this a respect issue, She just accidently read the wrong script for th wrong contestanFree Office Pool Hosting and you cold see the utter confusion on her and became more with the whole gudging thing changing for all.
A couple od people figured out happend and I don’ thing too many toes were trad upon. A tempest in a tea pot if there ever was one. Jason was a lovely kid and seem to forgive a faux-paux and in the end sorted out alls satisfaction. ;
what re you all freaking perfectionist111111111111????????????

http://www.examiner.com/x-276-Internet-Buzz-Examiner~y2009m8d4-Paula-Abdul-spotted-at-Idol-audition-callbacks–is-she-back-on-the-show

Well, folks, the Scat Cat may be out of the bag, because Paula was spotted at the Denver Idol callbacks this morning.

Suzie Austin, who works in the building where callbacks are filming today, saw Paula in an elevator with two guard-sized gentlemen in Idol staffer t-shirts.

‘I can’t swear it was Paula Abdul,’  said Suzie. ‘However, I did catch the woman’s profile before she turned the corner to the elevators and she was dressed very Paula-like in a short skirt and jacket ensemble, topped by a funky hat. Plus, she was being escorted by two men in AI t-shirts and trailed by two less-fashionable ladies. I did hear her say ‘thank you’ to the guys for holding the elevator.’ 

what re you all freaking perfectionist111111111111????????????

Calm down. I can’t speak for the others, but I love Paula. I just had never seen that clip before, and imo she did look a little high. I think it was an embarrassing faux pas, no biggie though. It’s just a TV show after all.

I don’t think this is just a negotiating ploy. Sometimes, the status quo shifts. Just because many view Paula as an integral part of the show doesn’t mean she has enough bargaining chips when it comes down to management’s decisions. I do question their judgement since their decision to bring Kara in just messed up the flow of the show. Maybe with Paula gone, the judging panel will gel better. I’m sure they’re betting on that.

This decision was not entirely Paula’s to make. Everyone has a line they must draw between salary/value and the door. Paula’s case may be massive news but its essentially the same dynamics that we all face, just writ large. Even though AI is grossly overcompensating Simon, Ryan and maybe Randy (not sure), there is a limit to how much they can shell out. Even AI is feeling the effects of a down economy. As a woman, I don’t like that Paula is considered to be so much less valuable, especially than Randy, but then again, by many accounts, she has been a pain to work with, and that is bound to come back and bite you.

Assuming that there is no abrupt change of heart here, life will go on for Paula. Sure AI is probably the biggest gig on the airwaves, but biggest isn’t always the best, especially when it gets down to personal versus career satisfaction. I can envision many scenarios in which Paula could find herself much happier (and saner) than she has been for the last several years.

There’s no question that AI has reached a point in its lifespan that changes are due. Its hard to tell from this vantage point if its reaching its natural elder years of winding down, or if its retooling itself to re-animate and re-energize the model. Only time will tell.

Show was a mess with 4 judges and everyone acknowledged it…they brought in a second chick last year…Paula’s bizarre behavior and supposed diva attitude behind the scenes, not to mention the controversies (sex with contestants, incoherent speech, etc.)…auditions start TOMORROW and she didn’t have a contract…

My guess is they either purposely lowballed her knowing she would leave the show, or they never had any intention of bringing her back and are allowing her to save face by claiming it’s her decision. And I’m putting my money on the latter.

Well, folks, the Scat Cat may be out of the bag, because Paula was spotted at the Denver Idol callbacks this morning.

Suzie Austin, who works in the building where callbacks are filming today, saw Paula in an elevator with two guard-sized gentlemen in Idol staffer t-shirts.

Maybe she has started stalking the producers.

sex with contestants,

She had sex with contestants? Is there footage? I’d like to see them

I’ll just be happy to have it down to 3 judges again. I do think Paula was a lot more lucid this year. Kara doesn’t really bother me – I watch for the contestants more than the judges.

She had sex with contestants? Is there footage? I’d like to see them

Craggle (Corey Clark) from season 2 claimed that she did. He was kind of nasty and I cringe at the thought.

From Wiki:

Clark provided, as evidence of his relationship with Paula Abdul, a message that Abdul left on his voice mail, multiple eyewitness accounts of Clark and Abdul being intimate together in public places, accounts by Clark’s parents of Abdul calling their home looking for Corey, a bottle of prescription strength cough medicine prescribed to Abdul in Clark’s possession, and phone records of Abdul and Clark speaking to each other for several hours at a time during late night hours.

Nigel poo-pooed the allegations, but after the claims came out, the judges were no longer allowed to fraternize with the contestants.

Clark isn’t the most credible witness (he was disqualified from the show for having been in trouble with the law), but those phone calls did happen. Paula disputes what was said.

I guess the show is mostly about the contestants for me, because I don’t give a crap that Paula is leaving.

I think they can compensate by giving Randy all of Paula’s lines: “Yo dawg, that was a little pitchy, for me for you, but you look beautiful and I saw all the colors of your soul” No one will even notice that Paula isn’t there, especially if Randy slurs a little bit or occasionally puts his hand on Simon’s thigh under the table.

My prediction:

People will complain for a few weeks and some will declare they won’t watch anymore. There will be articles of outrage in the press, along with articles saying it’s about time. Then everyone will forget about it until January.

Paula will do some kind of big TV interview or magazine cover around the time Idol starts up again (or whenever her next gig starts, whichever comes first). She will drop some big bombs in the interview designed to drive sympathy her way. All the people who weren’t paying attention now will be shocked that Paula isn’t coming back and complain about it. Kara will catch all kinds of hell for the first few weeks of Idol.

Idol will have its usual dip in ratings and there will be a flurry of chatter… is it because of Paula? Has Idol jumped the shark? By the time Hollywood week is over, no one will care anymore.

Or, you know, they’ll strike a last minute deal today and Paula will be back.

I’m not at all surprised and I really felt that Paula wanted this to be her last year and to go out on a high note. I’m sure, like any of us feeling the need to move on in our jobs and careers, she wavered between the sentimental and the practical.

In situations like that, there might be a subconscious ‘forcing of the hand’ – asking for something you’re pretty certain to not get so you can move on.

Paula has her hands full in many areas, and at 47, it’s a reflective time of ‘where do I want to go from here?’ Paula’s true love (my opinion) is dance and choreography. I think this is why she finally choreographed a group number for the Idols this year. I think it’s also why she performed one of her own song and dance numbers.

I’ll miss Paula on the show, but I think she’s wise to get out now before it totally jumps the shark. I think she’ll always be associated with AI and be back to visit while it is on.

I don’t think I’ll be watching AI next season. Paula was goofy and all but the contestants appreciated her input and tempered the sting of some of the other critiques. I didn’t like Kara and Randy was truly getting on my last nerve. I even muted the tv when he was speaking. I did appreciate Simon’s comments most of the time but his antics with Paula distracted the focus and attention of the show. So I’ll be one of those who won’t be tuning in. I’ll give my support to “NCIS” and “NCIS – LA” LL Cool J, yeah baby!!!!!!!!!!!

Paula…a pair of old disreputable slippers: well worn, pretty soiled, don’t fit anymore but oh so comfortable. Until one day you slip right out of those old overused slippers, turn your ankle, and realize that it is time to replace something well used but now pretty useless.

I am sure that there are many who have really liked Paula over the years and have gotten pretty comfortable with her…and for them it becomes hard to imagine an AI without her.

But for me…I like change and something different thrown into the mix. I get really tired of the same old antics and the same old schtick. Sometimes the old stuff just becomes pretty worthless clutter and should be thrown out and replaced.

Besides, wasn’t Paula eyeing Vegas and a showroom some months back. Let’s see if she has enough talent to carry a show by herself and “perform” every night instead of relying on other people to keep her in the spotlight.

So I’ll be one of those who won’t be tuning in. I’ll give my support to ‘NCIS’  and ‘NCIS – LA’  LL Cool J, yeah baby!!!!!!!!!!!

hmm what if Paula gets a role on NCIS – LA….

There will be a drop in the ratings unless they find 24 extremely talented singers.

Paula or no Paula, the judges do NOT make American Idol. The singers themselves do.

We could dump Kara and keep Paula, but if the producers pick 24 or 36 Tatianas, Sanjayas and Bikini Girls, ratings would plunge even faster.

Message to the producers: stop promoting gimmicks!!!

But for me’ ¦I like change and something different thrown into the mix. I get really tired of the same old antics and the same old schtick. Sometimes the old stuff just becomes pretty worthless clutter and should be thrown out and replaced.

Yeah, but I kinda wished they would have replaced Simon or Randy instead…

After last season, I almost wish there were NO judges and America had the only say…in other words, we be the judges…

We’ve been f/f through much of Paula’s comments for a long time so wouldn’t bother me a bit if she doesn’t come back. I noticed she was memorizing come of her comments about Adam this season and she used them whether it fitted or not. The only shock is that she’d give up such a great gig.

Craggle (Corey Clark) from season 2 claimed that she did. He was kind of nasty and I cringe at the thought.

From Wiki:

Clark provided, as evidence of his relationship with Paula Abdul, a message that Abdul left on his voice mail, multiple eyewitness accounts of Clark and Abdul being intimate together in public places, accounts by Clark’s parents of Abdul calling their home looking for Corey, a bottle of prescription strength cough medicine prescribed to Abdul in Clark’s possession, and phone records of Abdul and Clark speaking to each other for several hours at a time during late night hours.

Nigel poo-pooed the allegations, but after the claims came out, the judges were no longer allowed to fraternize with the contestants.

Clark isn’t the most credible witness (he was disqualified from the show for having been in trouble with the law), but those phone calls did happen. Paula disputes what was said.

Wow, for real? Thanks..Just googled it and read up..hmmmm

Okay, my kids are officially saying they don’t want to watch this year-esp. my daughter. We’ll see when the time comes. It definitely won’t be the same w/o Pauler. :(

After last season, I almost wish there were NO judges and America had the only say’ ¦in other words, we be the judges’ ¦

Err..hell no

Well, IF she really IS gone, my first reaction is sadness, followed by relief. The antics between her and Simon were really getting over-the-top and distracting from the contestants. I certainly hope that Kara doesn’t slide into Paula’s role now and start up the whole flirting/fighting thing with Simon again. Maybe they can become a respectable judging panel again (or..for once).

Kara will catch all kinds of hell for the first few weeks of Idol.

Yeah, I kind of feel sorry for Kara. I thought it was tough for her last year…

I have a feeling the contestants may be “cast” more this year than ever before, because losing Paula is going to leave a hole that TPTB will desperately want to fill with something.

Paula on NCIS–perfect!

I love the Paula dissing. Tell me WTF Randy has been doing for the past, oh, I don’t know, EIGHT SEASONS.

If she isn’t back, she’ll go to SYTYCD, at least as a rotating judge (she’ll make Mary look completely lucid). Life goes on, the ratings *may* see a slight drop (I would love that), and a lot of us who were on the fence about watching may decide not to do it. It’s a long way till January.

I hope this means the show can get back to being about the contestants, but I doubt that’ll be the case. You’d have to get rid of the current executive producer — who took over from Nigel — as well as Simon whose ego knows no bounds. I think those two were the ones who made last season a big disappointment for me by turning the show on its head and upping the face time and influence of the judges.

I was really coming off of a TV high after Season 7, which I thought was one of their best, ranking right up there with Season 5. However, when I heard about a fourth judge and Nigel leaving — who, love him or hate him — kept much firmer control over this circus, I didn’t think it looked good. And, that soon proved true.

They returned to the one shot semi-finals process that tends to reward attention-getting and polish rather than raw talent; they reinstituted the wild card, but with no viewer input. They put the spotlight and the focus on the judges at the expense of the singers … even cutting performance time and upping judge shenanighans and role-playing. They created the save, which was needless. They gave us very little background on the contestants and even tried to cut back on the cheesy group numbers, which are fun for the viewers and give us another take on the performers’ abilities. By having them lip-synch and trying to orchestrate the cheese out of them, they actually made them dull. Finally, there was very little behind the scenes snippets of the performers.

I mention all this to point out that Paula wasn’t the cause or even a big part of why last season didn’t work for me. However, she certainly added to it. In past seasons, you could always rely on Paula for entertainment value. She often said goofy, nonsensical things; sometimes she looked totally out-of-it, which kept me wondering what she’d do next; and none of the judges got into the performances like she did with her constant boogeying. However, this past season, she seemed scripted to an inch of her life. All those big words she could hardly pronounce and the wacky factor was definitely cut back. They were taking “the Paula” out of the show without actually getting rid of her, which is a shame. On the other hand, by focusing on judges’, the one thing they didn’t take out was the stupid interactions she always has with Simon. In fact, they overemphasized it at the expense of the contestants. So, they tried to eliminate the goofy Paula while magnifying the mother hen Paula whose always combatting Simon. (I wonder whose idea that was? Heh.)

The one thing this show is really going to miss without her — beyond the crazy, if they had allowed it to return — is that Paula, along with Randy, often saw the potential of the contestants who weren’t all polished and ready to go. Simon never sees that. Paula and Randy put through people who became stars, leaving Simon to play catch-up. Will Kara be able to do that?

And, lastly, Paula always had something good to say about everyone — which to be honest — they cut back on last season as well. From the first to the seventh season, you could always rely on Paula to put a little sugar in the tonic. Last season, I think she was a bit colder to some contestants who ended up doing very well, all because *it* wasn’t and *they* weren’t in the script. (Did I mention she was scripted to an inch of her life last season?)

They took the joy and fun out of Paula, so if that was the person who was going to come back … well, we’re not missing anything from season 9 because it was already gone in season 8.

Tweets from Kris

@PaulaAbdul we love you! Glad I was able to be a part of your last season on the show. You showed us so much love.

and Danny

@paulaabdul Im really sad 2 see Paula Abdul not coming back 2 idol. She was the judge with the biggest heart! She really will be missed :(

Does anyone else wonder if Simon will be a bit lost w/o Pauler…? I think this may have one of two effects on him. He’ll act even more bored than he did last year, or he’ll step up his game. Thoughts?

Okay, just hearing about this now and I feel I should post my initial reaction before reading the other comments.
WHAAAAAAAT!?
Paula Abdul was my favorite judge. I’d take just her over Simon, Kara, and Randy put together.

Or, you know, they’ll strike a last minute deal today and Paula will be back.

I hope. I thought maybe Paula’s tweet last night wasn’t the final word and she was looking for sympathy but Fox’s statement today makes it seem kind of final. Maybe Simon will step in. He said he wouldn’t want to do the show without her and it would give him a chance to look like the hero who saved the day. Does Cowell ever mean what he says?

Does anyone have information on Randy’s contract? Expiration date? Amount? It’s a bit unrealistic to compare her demands w. that of Ryan (host) or Simon (the show’s true star judge)…..Randy is the only colleague she should compare her paycheck to, IMO.

I actually think this is for the best…..the relationship has hit a rut, its not going anywhere, time to cut ties and go your own separate ways. I actually think the chemistry will be better as Randy and Simon wont have Paula to distract them.

One of the reasons I love SYTYCD, is the “jiddges” (oh, how I adore Cat). Despite their pimping, screaming, silly jokes….they spend time giving back constructive, relevant criticism. Whether I agree with it or not isn’t the point, the point is they are actually doing their job. Now if only Simon and company would do the same.

Kinda sad to see her go. Loopy as she may be, she at least didn’t set out to crush the spirits of the contestants and always had a soft spot for the underdog.

Does anyone else wonder if Simon will be a bit lost w/o Pauler’ ¦? I think this may have one of two effects on him. He’ll act even more bored than he did last year, or he’ll step up his game. Thoughts?

I think he’ll act more bored. Even though he didn’t have a lot of respect for her, I honestly think he respects and likes Paula a lot more than he does the other two. He can’t be completely blind to some of the very perceptive early judgments she made through the years — like really pushing for Kelly C when Simon was so obsessed with looking for a “package” of some sort that he didn’t see what was right in front of him

And I think Kara will try to flirt and fight with him and fail miserably, and it’ll still be gross to watch, just like the Paula/Simon fighting/flirting has been gross to watch. Except more so, because while I just kind of despair of Paula, I still kind of grudgingly like her and think she has good instincts and good intentions, while Kara to me is a phoney-baloney, shallow suck-up who’s never rubbed me anything but the wrong way. Plus, she spent the whole year knowing that she’d be writing the *one* song that the winner would be forced to sing, and she got together with a *group* of songwriters … and wrote No Boundaries. She obviously has no shame whatsoever. (guess I should have known that after Open Toes, huh?)

And I doubt Simon’s very impressed with No Boundaries either. He kind of thinks a song should have a melody.

And then of course there’s useless Randy … Yeah, Simon’s going to be bored. Can’t even have a good fight with those two.

Paula: “…I’ll miss nurturing all the new talent…”

I think that in order for one to nuture talent, the recipients of said advice must actually understand what comes out of one’s mouth. Did any contestant in any of the eight seasons understand more than one sentence that woman uttered?!? I can probably count on one hand the times I found myself thinking “Wow Paula, that was actually almost lucid.”

Does anyone have information on Randy’s contract? Expiration date? Amount? It’s a bit unrealistic to compare her demands w. that of Ryan (host) or Simon (the show’s true star judge)’ ¦..Randy is the only colleague she should compare her paycheck to, IMO.

I don’t know how much Randy makes but I think I read somewhere that his contract isn’t up until 2011. … Don’t know why that would be either, unless in an earlier negotiation he was willing to settle for what they were paying him all the way through that point while Paula insisted on renegotiating in hopes of getting more later or something.

Makes sense to me that Paula would be making something in Randy’s ballpark, too, but I don’t know that I’ve ever heard what that is. Guess he doesn’t rock the boat much during negotiations, knowing the kind of crap he’d probably have to do without the Idol gig, lol.

Well, IF she really IS gone, my first reaction is sadness, followed by relief. The antics between her and Simon were really getting over-the-top and distracting from the contestants.

Yes, this is an accurate statement. Some people seem to think that the only thing wrong with Season 8 was the mess with having four judges; however, it goes beyond that. You have brought out a good point of criticism.

Other than Adam and a few others, this has been one of the weaker seasons. The “Saved by the Judges” routine ruined the concept of America voting for their favorite contestant.

I want to see the show vitalized and improved!