When Paula Abdul's absence from the next season of 'American Idol' was hinted over the weekend, fellow judge Simon and host Ryan are quick to respond.
- July 21, 2009
AceShowbiz -
The case of 'is she or is she not' returning to "American Idol" is still surrounding Paula Abdul. Despite her manager's statement last week regarding the slim chance that she will be back for another round, the show's host Ryan Seacrest and fellow judge Simon Cowell have expressed where they stand in the matter.
"I connected with @paulaabdul today...love u PA can't imagine doing idol without u!!" Ryan wrote on his Twitter Monday, July 20. He was also showing confidence that Paula will be back. "I think as far as I know you'll see everybody back. I hope so," he told Extra.
Simon meanwhile, was more sure about the return. "She'll be fine," he stated. "She'll be on the show. I don't get a lot of say. I've just made it clear that I want Paula on the show. Full stop."
On Friday, July 17, Paula's manager David Sonenberg told The Times that "very sadly, it does not appear that she's going to be back on 'Idol'." 19 Entertainment and Freemantle media which produce the show have not served her with a new contract.
Fans also stand behind Paula, writing on her Twitter positive messages of support. Paula replied, "Your support and being there for me means the WORLD to me!! Thank you so much!"
The ninth season of "American Idol" is coming January 2010.
