'Idol' Judges Through the Years

It's official, "American Idol" fans. Paula Abdul confirmed Tuesday, Aug. 4, 2009, that she will not be returning to FOX's mega-popular singing competition for its ninth season. "With sadness in my heart, I've decided not to return to Idol," the 47-year-old "Idol" judge wrote on her Twitter page. "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." FOX confirmed the longtime judge's departure with a statement: "While Paula will not be continuing with us, she's a tremendous talent and we wish her the best." (Ray Tamarra/Getty Images)