Paula Abdul Speaks Out About 'X Factor' Exit

Abdul confirms news in statement and says 'business decisions often times override personal considerations.'
By Kara Warner

Paula Abdul
Photo: Mark Davis/ Gety Images

We've only had a few hours to digest the three very surprising exits from "X Factor" that were announced Monday, and we're still scratching our heads at what happened over at Fox to make such drastic changes to the singing competition.

For many fans, the biggest shock was Simon Cowell and company's letting go of original "American Idol" diva and delightfully unpredictable judge Paula Abdul, who has since released a statement about her departure. "Yes, it's true; I won't be returning to The X Factor next season," Abdul said in a statement. "I've learned through my longevity in this industry that business decisions often times override personal considerations. Simon and I, along with Fox and Fremantle, have been communicating about this for a while now, and I have absolute understanding of the situation. Simon is, and will remain a dear friend of mine and I've treasured my experience working this past season with my extended family at Fox and Fremantle. I want nothing more than for The X Factor to exceed ALL of their wildest dreams. This truly has been a blessing and I am most grateful."

Although they have not released official statements as of yet, we expect to hear from the other two ousted "X Factor" folks, Nicole Scherzinger and host Steve Jones, sometime soon.

The former Pussycat Doll and "Dancing With the Stars" champ will reportedly turn her attention back to her music career, while Abdul and Jones will be looking for their next big things.

As far as we know, L.A. Reid will continue to work alongside Cowell on the judging panel. There has been no word yet from Fox on who might replace Abdul, Scherzinger and Jones, or when season two will premiere.

What do you think Paula Abdul should do after "X Factor"? Leave your comment below.

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a a team Aaliyah Aaron Katz