Next Gen Journal

By Kati Dulaney

Recently, Paula Abdul announced that she would not be returning as a judge on American Idol for the coming season. Apparently, Paula was to receive a salary of only $4-5 million; it sounds like a lot, but it’s nothing compared to the yearly paycheck commanded by fellow judge Simon Cowell (reportedly $45 million per season). Abdul is known for her somewhat strange antics and as a result, many questioned her sobriety while she was on the show. Whatever your opinion of Idol in general or Abdul in particular, there is no doubt that her departure raises many questions.

The American Idol logo (Copyrighted)

The most obvious is: who will replace her? For now, Idol producers say that they will make do with the standard three judges (Simon Cowell, Randy Jackson, and Kara DioGuardi) as well as a rotating crew of star “guest judges.” Victoria Beckham and Katy Perry are among those who will lend their talents to the show. Rumors have even surfaced that Victoria Beckham may be a more-permanent fix. Questions are still swirling, and they undoubtedly will for a while. But here are a few questions for you:

Will American Idol be better or worse without Paula Abdul? Who should replace her as the panel’s fourth judge?