[Arneldo]

Paula Abdul has confirmed that she will not be returning to American Idol.

The singer, who has been a judge on the Fox reality show for the past eight seasons, made the announcement on her Twitter page yesterday.

"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 one become an international phenomenon," she said.

"What I want to say most, is how much I appreciate the undying support and enormous love that you have showered upon me. I do, without any doubt, have the best fans in the entire world and I love you all."

Fox television confirmed the star's decision to leave in a statement, saying: "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."

No reason for her departure has been given yet, although her manager recently claimed that she was "hurt" and "angry" at being blocked out of negotiations over her contract.

DS