Paula Abdul Exits 'Idol'

Paula Abdul, 47, announced Tuesday that she is leaving American Idol. “With sadness in my heart, I’ve decided not to return to Idol,” Abdul wrote on Twitter. “What I want to say most, is how much I appreciate the undying support and enormous love that you have showered upon me." Abdul's lawyer had complained that her contract demands were not being taken seriously after host Ryan Seacrest got a reported $45 million multi-year contract renewal. The judge's panel now returns to three, with Simon Cowell, Randy Jackson and Kara DioGuardi, who has just signed on for her second season. (Photo: WENN)