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Posts Tagged ‘Paula Abdul American Idol’

Former “American Idol” producer Nigel Lythgoe says Paula Abdul leaving American Idol is a huge blow to the program and, more importantly, the contestants.

According to MJ’s Blog, Nigel Lythgoe talked to Hollywood Outbreak on the set of the So You Think You Can Dance final performance show about Paula Abdul leaving American Idol.

Nigel Lythgoe Comments on Paula Abdul Quitting American Idol. Watch Video.

He emphasizes that the talent that comes on the show each year is what makes Idol. He also believes it’s important that Paula be replaced with somebody like her–that it’s OK for somebody like Simon Cowell to tear the kids down as long as somebody builds them back up again.

Also, it’s being reported, that according to “inside sources” Paula “was being offered a 30 percent pay raise that amounted to an eight-figure deal, but that, apparently, wasn’t enough.” (read the whole article–Michael Slezak was on CBS news this morning–he thinks it was a negotiating ploy too).

PFP Sports and Celebrity Talent Agency is a top celebrity booking agent for American Idols, entertainers, sports stars and celebrities.

“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,” Paula said on Twitter.

Apparently negotiations broke down with rehearsals about to start this week.

In a statement, Fox and the show’s producers said Abdul was “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.”

They said she was a “tremendous talent” and wished her the best.

Oh no! Please say it isn’t so. We want Paula back!

PFP Sport and Celebrity Talent Agency is a top celebrity booking agent for American Idols, entertainers, sports stars and celebrities.

Paula Abdul

The latest news is that Paula Abdul is still in contract negotiations with the producers of American Idol.  I believe that Paula is an important element to the show and in my opinion American Idol will not be the same without her. I certainly understand her viewpoint that she is worth more when comparing her current salary to those of  Ryan Seacrest and Simon Cowell.  She should at least be given more value in comparison.

By the way I haven’t heard any talk about Randy’s salary. Anyone know what he currently gets?

According to The LA Times “American Idol” judge Paula Abdul, is making $4 million a year and is seeking $12 million, sources say. Host Ryan Seacrest has made a three-year deal, while judge Simon Cowell, who some see as essential for the show to remain a success, is in talks. He could use his leverage to try to get “X Factor,” which he hosts overseas, on Fox.

Negotiations on a new contract for Simon Cowell, the show’s linchpin, chief prosecutor and animating force, are progressing quickly and could be concluded as early as this week. Cowell, who currently makes about $36 million annually and still has another year on his pact, is looking at a new multiyear deal that would boost his pay to the $45-million range, people close to the talks said.

PFP Sports and Celebrity Booking Agency is a speakers bureau and top booking agent for American Idols, sports speakers, athlete appearances and celebrities. If you are looking to hire Paula Abdul or want to contact Paula Abdul’s booking agent call 800.966.1380.