Fox Says Paula Abdul Will Return As ‘Idol’ Judge, Found No Evidence Of Affair

Officials from the Fox Television Network announced Friday (August 12) that investigators found no evidence to support a former American Idol contestant’s claims that he had an affair with judge Paula Abdul. According to the Associated Press, Fox officials said Paula will be back as a judge on the show’s upcoming season and that they will be implementing an “enhanced non-fraternization” policy to prevent any future allegations of improper relations between judges and contestants. Paula said in a statement, “I’m grateful this ordeal is over, and I’m so looking forward to getting back to the job I love.”

The allegations were made in May by Corey Clark, who was a finalist on the show in 2003, during its second season. He claimed that he had an affair with Abdul during the competition and she helped him pick out clothes and songs for his performances.

Fox hired two lawyers from separate firms, who jointly handled the three-and-a-half-month investigation. They interviewed 43 people and reviewed material provided by both Abdul and Clark.

Clark did not return calls for comment made by the Associated Press.

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