Cowell Wants Abdul Back on Idol

Simon Cowell has made it known to the powers that be that he wants co-judge Paula Abdul back on American Idol for season 8.

It was announced yesterday by Abdul’s manager that it was “unlikely” the former singer would be renewing her contract with the FOX network reality show; however, both Cowell and host Ryan Seacrest have said Paula will be back.

“She’ll be fine. She’ll be on the show,” Cowell told Extra on Monday. “I don’t get a lot of say. I’ve just made it clear that I want Paula on the show. Full stop.”

Host Seacrest said: “I think as far as I know you’ll see everybody back. I hope so.”

Word on the street is that Abdul’s contract has yet to be renewed because of on-going talks regarding money issues. Apparently, since both Seacrest and Cowell have received massive pay increases for the coming season, Abdul’s singing out for more money as well – $20 million, to be exact.

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Paula Abdul Out of American Idol

The latest season of American Idol may have been Paula Abdul’s last, with the reality television judge’s manager revealing that she may not be returning to the hit series.

At this point in time, Abdul’s manager David Sonenberg says it “doesn’t appear” Paula will be back, as there has been no proposal for a new contract sent for his perusal.

Earlier in the year, Kevin Reilly – the Fox entertainment president – said that Abdul was “an integral part of the show.” However, with auditions for the new season of Idol starting later this month, it’s looking highly unlikely that Abdul will be back for another series.

Other Idol stalwarts Simon Cowell, Randy Jackson and Ryan Seacrest are already on board, with both Cowell and Seacrest snagging substantial pay rises with their new contracts.

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