American Idol judge and singer-dancer Paula Abdul will not remain in the show, Abdul and Fox confirmed in separate statements.

Abdul confirmed speculation that emerged since July saying she had taken the decision to not go back with sadness in her heart.

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, a statement from Fox said according to CNN. While Paula will not be continuing with us, she's a tremendous talent and we wish her the best.

The L.A. Times reports that Abdul was looking for a salary increase bigger than what Fox was willing to offer. She was earning between $2 million to $4 million per year, the L.A. Times reports. In comparison, the show's host Ryan Seacrest signed a three-year contract for $45 million last month.

American Idol has been the most popular TV show in the U.S. for the last five years.

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