James Allen News Center

Well, it`s official. American Idol judge, Paula Abdul, will not be returning for the hit reality show`s ninth season, which begins early next year. The former pop dancer, choreographer and singer of the hits `Opposites Attract` and `Straight Up`, had a tumultuous personal and career path that was resurrected in 2002, when she joined American Idol`s first season as a judge. She has served on the show for eight seasons.

In 1992, Abdul famously exchanged wedding rings with The Breakfast Club star, Emilio Estevez, but the couple was divorced only 2 years later, in 1994. Paula`s public image has suffered from eating disorders, substance abuse allegations, and a famous hit-and-run incident in 2004. However, Abdul`s tenure on American Idol has provided her A-list recognition and celebrity status, despite these setbacks.

On her decision to leave American Idol, Abdul wrote on her Twitter: "With sadness in my heart, I've decided not to return. I`ll miss nurturing all the new talent, but most of all I'll miss being a part of a show that I helped from day 1 become an international phenomenon."

In a statement issued by the Fox network and the show's producers, they said Abdul was a "tremendous talent" and that they were "saddened that she has decided not to return to the show." Idol`s host, Ryan Seacrest has also expressed his disappointment on his Twitter: "I have read what u have read and I am shocked and saddened about Paula."

Recently, Simon Cowell revealed to Extra that he wants to see Paula Abdul back on the show: "I`ve just made it clear that I want Paula on the show."

American Idol Season Nine auditions are set to begin August 9. On Monday, FOX announced that judge Kara DioGuardi would return for a second season.