Paula Abdul Replacement Suggestion Box - I Nominate Queen Latifah!

Fox confirmed yesterday that Paula Adbul decided not to come back on American Idol, even if Fox wanted her back on the show and offered her a raise. As far as they are concerned, Paula turned her back on the show and is not coming back.

Since Fox loves the four judge format so much, they are inviting guest judges to be the fourth judge beginning this weekend when the show starts taping the auditions. Already tapped are: Katy Perry and Victoria Beckham (Posh Spice). By January 2009, a new judge will be selected.

I'm disappointed that Paula Abdul does not want to be part of American Idol anymore -- she was my favorite judge! But I respect her decision. I can see why she decided not to be part of the show anymore: there are so many bigger things waiting for her, not necessarily for financial gain but for personal fulfillment. If she plays her cards right, she could be a contestant on Dancing with the Stars when American Idol is on and she could show Fox just what kind of ratings power she commands. She can expand her jewelry line on HSN and attend to it full time (being a brand yourself and not just "a judge" on a show is more appealing I think). In this clip from Sirius Radio, Paula said that her decision to come back on the show had something to do with "balancing touring dates" -- so I think she has plans for a tour next year! So excited. (But consider DWTS Paula!)

I'm sorry that Paula has turned her back on us American Idol fans but being the eternal optimist that I am, at least now we can suggest to Fox who we want as her replacement!

So who do you guys think should be the fourth judge?

I think Queen Latifah would be a great choice. Although someone like Dolly Parton would be good too, but she's too old now. Britney Spears would make Simon salivate if the show got her, but that's probably not going to happen. So Queen Latifah it is for me. She's smart, eloquent, has great musical taste, and can stare down Simon Cowell if she needs to. If I was a contestant on the show, I would love Queen to be defending me against Simon.

Suggestion box is open! (Use the comments)