PAULA ABDUL IS FINALZING HER DEAL, TO COME BACK ON IDOL.

Source: USA Today

Paula Abdul says she's optimistic about remaining as an American Idol judge and says the show has invited her back for a ninth season and beyond — subject to the negotiation of a new contract.

Abdul told The Associated Press in an interview on Monday in Atlanta that she's been invited to stay for the duration of the show. She was backstage at the new television show Drop Dead Diva, which premieres on July 12.

Abdul's contract, which expired after the eighth season, has not been renewed. There has been speculation that Abdul would be replaced by Kara DioGuardi, who was recently added as a judge.

The 47-year-old singer-dancer says she hopes a deal can be arranged so she can return to the hit show.