Does end of ‘Idol's’ season spell end of Abdul?

LOS ANGELES - “American Idol” wrapped up its last night of competition Tuesday – but is judge Paula Abdul wrapping up her time with the Fox reality competition?

Access Hollywood.com’s Laura “Dish of Salt” Saltman caught up with Abdul backstage at the Nokia Theatre following Tuesday’s showdown between Adam Lambert and Kris Allen to find out what lies ahead for the longtime “Idol” judge.

“Is this night bittersweet for you?” Saltman asked. “Your contract is up and this could be your final season if you don’t re-sign.”

“My final bow? You know, we’ll see what happens,” Abdul said. “They’ve welcomed me and want me to stay the duration of all the seasons. I don’t know what I’m going to do. I’m taking my time on this. I’ve got to explore some.

“I am blessed and privileged to be a part of this unbelievable, talent-making machine.” 

Abdul might not know if she’ll be back for next season, but according to fellow judge Simon Cowell, everyone is expected to return to the judges table.

As previously reported on AccessHollywood.com, during an appearance earlier this month on “The Ellen DeGeneres Show,” the British judge said, “I think certainly next year everyone’s going to be back.”

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