IS IDOL IN PAULA'S FUTURE -- AMERICAN IDOL OR IDOL AUSTRALIA?

Paula Abdul reportedly has been offered a chance to judge on Idol, but it is Idol in Australia, not Idol in the USA, according to newsday.

The Australian Idols show has “put a request to strike a deal with her in writing,” according to Radaronline. The Australian version of the show should feel like home to Abdul because it is similar to the American version – has four judges and follows an almost identical format.

But rumors are also circulating that there is at least a glimmer of possibility that Paula might return to American Idol!

“Don’t count out a return to ‘American Idol’ for Paula,” a source is quoted on Radaronline. “Sure there are bad feelings, but a last-second return is not out of the question.” That source revealed that Idol judge Simon Cowell has been very supportive of Paula “behind the scenes” – that fellow judges Randy Jackson and Kara DioGuardi are also supportive.

Abdul, of course, has been described as disappointed that she was earning considerably less money than her male counterparts, felt that some show connections failed to do enough to defend her against rumors that she feels cost her endorsement deals – and felt that the addition of DioGuardi to the judging panel was a message from producers that she could be replaced.

The Idol show offered Abdul $5 million, half of what she wanted and far less than earning of both host Ryan Seacrest and judge Simon Cowell.

But perhaps with a return to contract negotiations, the hurt feelings can be mended and a deal agreed upon.

And while American Idol winners, including current Idol Kris Allen, and contestants have overwhelmingly expressed disappointment and sadness that Abdul may not return to Idol, first season winner Kelly Clarkson feels that the situation is actually all about “drama,” reports MTV.

Clarkson, appearing on Morning Mashup Show, opined, “I totally think they’re doing that for drama. I know those producers – they’re doing that for drama. She’s totally probably going to come back.”

Meanwhile, there is no lack of interest in Paula from other possible suitors. And if the offers are good enough, what would it cost Idol executives to bring her back?

There have been rumors that Abdul has been offered a guest spot on “Ugly Betty” – as a temp at Mode who becomes friendly with Amanda. And it is a fact that execs for both “So You Think You Can Dance” and “Dancing For the Stars” have said that they would love for Paula to join their shows.