Paula Abdul Said to Be in Negotiation to Return to 'American Idol'

Tue, 18 August 2009 03:32:44 ET

Not listed on the cast of 'Dancing with the Stars', Paula Abdul reportedly is negotiating her return to 'American Idol' with FOX.

Paula Abdul reportedly has been in serious negotiation with FOX regarding her return to "American Idol" as one of the judges. According to MSNBC, the negotiation between the singer and the broadcasting company has become more intense after her name was not listed on the cast of "Dancing with the Stars" which has been announced on Monday, August 17.

"The people at the very top of ABC were really vocal about getting her on board for 'Dancing'. By not exactly keeping it secret, it made Paula's value more apparent to FOX," said a source familiar with the talks with Abdul. The source added, "Paula isn't lowering her price in any meaningful way. She wants a Seacrest-level deal." Ryan Seacrest himself reportedly is paid $30 million to renew his contract for a three-year period.

In related news, it was mentioned that several people, who are close to the talks, have dished on a possible scenario to get Paula back on the show. The 47-year-old beauty reportedly may be involved on the live shows only. With this plan, the show is said to be able to get Paula with their original offer, while she will have a shorter time commitment.

Previously, it was also reported that Paula Abdul will not join America Ferrera on ABC drama series "Ugly Betty". LA Times said negotiations between the music producer and the television network have broken down and are past the point of repair. The news also suggested she was supposed to portray a temp worker, who buddies up to Amanda at Mode magazine, in an episode that will start shooting in the coming week.

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