American Idol judge Paula Abdul announced on her Twitter page yesterday that she will not be returning to the hit FOX reality show in the fall.  She had been negotiating a new contract, reportedly demanding $20 million for the 2010 season after learning that Ryan Seacrest had just inked a three-year deal worth $45 million.

The announcement came just two days before the ninth season taping was to begin. FOX has confirmed that Kara DioGuardi, who rocked a bikini during the eighth season finale, will return to sit on the judges panel alongside Randy Jackson and Simon Cowell.

Paula tweeted, “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 1 become 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.”

This may have been Paula’s opportunity to save face amid rumors that the network did not offer her a new contract.

View more photos below.

Photos:  WENN

Related Articles:

• Paula Abdul Leaving American Idol?
• Kara DioGuardi Rocks A Bikini On American Idol (Photo, Video)
• Paula Abdul Covers Ladies' Home Journal, Details Drug Addiction
• Celebrities Before and After Plastic Surgery (Photos)
• Paula Goodspeed Suicide: Former American Idol Contestant (Video, Photos)
• Paula Abdul Fan Found Dead Outside Her Home
• Celebrity Implants Gone Wrong (Photos)
• Paula Abdul's "Strangest Show Ever" on American Idol (Video)
• DWTS Judge Carrie Ann Inaba Topless Poledancer Photos

Filed under: American Idol, Paula Abdul