By now you’ve probably heard that Paula Abdul announced yesterday, via Twitter, that she will not be returning to American Idol next year. This announcement comes on the heels of Kara DioGuardi’s announcement that she will be returning next year and joining forces with Randy Jackson and Simon Cowel, as well as the host Ryan Seacrest.

Not that it’s shocking that Paula is leaving – every year the woman has to go through some random scandal usually revolving about Idol. Several years its been drugs or pain killers, one year it was inappropriate mingling with contestants. And of course anyone who watches the show knows that Paula and Simon never, ever see eye-to-eye on anything. The two are always at each other’s throats.

But while it was not exactly surprising it did stun most of America. After all, Paula has been with the show since its start. Losing her is like having Seasame Street without Bert and just Ernie.  She added an unexpected quirkiness to the show. Her outrageous outfits, her attempts at using big words and her endearing inability to say anything truly cruel to a contestant will be missed. She provided the comic relief and affectionate, motherly tone that helped cut down on Simon’s harsh criticism.

What do you think? How will the show be different now that she’s gone? Will you still watch?