American Idol just got less flighty, possibly drug dependent and crazy: Long time judge Paula Abdul announced last night via her Twitter that she would be leaving American Idol over a contract dispute. FOX confirmed the news last night, wishing her best of luck in her future endeavors (which would be what at this point?). 

The show is now back down to three judges, as producers announced last week that they re-signed Kara Dioguardi, last year's fourth judge, for at least another season. The premiere of season nine is still a ways off, so don't be surprised if this is some stunt to bring Abdul back in a guest appearance role to drum up ratings. [Idolator]