Just a little over a year after Fox cancelled American Idol, ABC announced it is bringing the music competition series that launched the careers of Kelly Clarkson and Carrie Underwood back, in 2018. With the show returning to the small screen, it's only natural to be curious about what the original judges are up to these days. If you are wondering where fan favorite Paula Abdul is now, don't worry, the singer is super busy.
After spending eight seasons doling out advice and constructive criticism to American Idol contestants (and shedding more than a few tears), no one could fault Abdul for taking a well-deserved break. Slowing down just isn't in the cards for the '80s pop icon though. The singer is currently filming a documentary called Move, and she spent 2016 offering up both her vocals and acting skills to a variety of television shows. From singing "Forever Your Girl" in Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt Season 2 to guest starring in Cooper Barrett's Guide to Surviving Life, Abdul was everywhere last year.
This summer, the singer is getting back to her roots. Abdul is currently on her the Total Package Tour, which is basically an '80s kid's musical fantasy come to life. The former American Idol judge has teamed up with The New Kids on the Block and Boyz II Men for a nostalgic pop reunion that will take her across America (and through parts of Canada). Season 4 Idol winner Carrie Underwood recently reunited with Abdul backstage at the tour's Nashville, Tennessee stop.
Currently, ABC has only announced one judge for the American Idol reboot, and that judge is Katy Perry. There's no word yet on whether or not Abdul will return to the judges' table, but if she doesn't, it will be totally understandable. At 54, the performer is busier than ever. Not only has she returned to the stage, she is also a passionate humanitarian.
On May 18, she received the Harry Chapin Memorial Humanitarian Award for her work with We.org. Abdul is focused on working with young people to help them realize their full potential, and even partnered with Turnaround Arts to adopt a school in Brooklyn, New York. The singer is dedicated to fostering a love of the arts by campaigning to prevent at-risk programs from being cut from schools.
Between her philanthropy and her the rebirth of her music career, Abdul may be way too busy wowing her fans for another round of American Idol. But that doesn't mean the legendary performer will be dropping off your radar anytime soon.
