UPDATE: It’s really true. Fox has just released this official 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.”

We knew an announcement would be coming soon—but did we really think it would end up this way?

Less than a week after learning that Kara DioGuardi would be returning to American Idol comes news of a major exit. Within the hour, Paula Abdul has announced through a series of tweets that she will NOT be coming back to the hit reality show.

“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..Cont’d…I’ll miss nurturing all the new talent,but most of all being a part of a show that I helped from day1become 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.”

So is this the final word on the matter? Will there be a last minute offer from the producers? Will Simon Cowell and Ryan Seacrest pool some of their money to save Paula? Stay tuned…

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