The Celebrity Truth

Paula Abdul has revealed the reasons behind her shock departure from American Idol, explaining that her exit from the judges’ panel wasn’t about money, but “principles” – and adding that “sometimes decisions are very difficult to make, but I’ve always believed that at the core I’m a survivor.”

“I stand on principle where many people stand on money,” Abdul tells TV Guide. “I’m a hard-working artist. I’ve lasted in this business for 23 years. And you can’t do that unless you are good at what you do.”

The 47-year-old adds, “I’m going to miss the experience of watching young talent evolve into a place where they get to take off and soar.”

The former singer and choreographer says she’s not sure what’s next, but has considered doing a talk show or a variety shot.

“I believe in myself and you have to have your own self respect. And sometimes decisions are very difficult to make, but I’ve always believed that at the core I’m a survivor. There’s not one thing I’ve done that I’ve really set my mind to that I’ve failed at,” Abdul says.

“I definitely want to do a talk show because it would be different. It would be a lot of fun variety with a ton of unexpected stuff and tributes to everyday people getting their big chance.”

Abdul, who recently shot a guest role on Lifetime’s Drop Dead Diva, also had a message to send to her fans.

“The fans all should know I adore, love, appreciate and respect how much they’ve expressed their outpouring of love and support for me. That’s what keeps me going in lots of ways.”

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Photo: Bravo TV.