Paula Abdul announced on her Twitter page to day that she will NOT be returning to American Idol next season!!

“With sadness in my heart, I’ve decided not to return to IDOL. I’ll miss nurturing all the new talent, but most of all being a part of a show that I helped from day 1 become an international phenomenon. 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. I do without any doubt have the BEST fans in the entire world and I love you all.”

Fox also confirmed, and released the following statement

“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.”

Fellow judges Randy Jackson and Simon Cowell  – who has said in the past that he does not want to do Idol without Abdul — are not commenting. Idol host Ryan Seacrest posted a response on Twitter: “I am shocked and saddened.”

Abdul has been in contract negotiations for the last few weeks, and is walking away from a 30% raise and 8 figure salary.

[source]