Paula Abdul Leaving American Idol

After much debate and intense speculation, Paula Abdul has announced that she won’t return to “American Idol” next season.

Abdul posted a tweet on Twitter Tuesday night, breaking the news.

“With sadness in my heart, I’ve decided not to return to #Idol,” the former Laker girl said. “I’ll miss nurturing all the new talent,but most of all being a part of a show that I helped from day1become an international phenomenon.”

FOX representatives then issued their own statement confirming that Paula Abdul would not be on the show for the first time since its inception back in 2002.

Story continues below...

“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,” the statement from FOX read.

After announcing that she wouldn’t be back on Tuesday, Paula offered a message of thanks to her fans.

“What I want to say most, is how much I appreciate the undying support and enormous love that you have showered upon me… It truly has been breathtaking, especially over the past month,” she wrote. “I do without any doubt have the BEST fans in the entire world and I love you all.”