Guess Who's Replacing Paula Abdul... Well Sort Of

Victoria Beckham is to replace Paula Abdul as a judge on American Idol.

The former Spice Girl begins filming the new series this week after fellow judge Simon Cowell got her on board.

Posh has agreed to guest in at least two episodes and will make an estimated £155,000.

Pop star-turned-fashion designer Victoria, 35, will join Cowell, Randy Jackson and songwriter Kara DioGuardi for the series which begins tomorrow.

A source told the Mirror: “Victoria is hugely flattered as this is one of the highest profile gigs in America.


“It really is a big deal. Her husband David may be getting a bit of stick at the moment but Victoria’s profile Stateside has never been higher. Network bosses would love to give her the job full-time and it looks like it’s there for her if she wants it.

“But at the moment, Victoria’s main priority is fashion. She doesn’t really need any distractions.

“She has also been back at New York fashion week in September to launch her 2010 collection.

“However, Victoria’s appearance on American Idol is sure to provide a massive ratings boost in the UK so, really, everyone’s a winner.”

The news follows Paula’s announcement yesterday, via Twitter, that she was quitting the talent show.

She wrote: “With sadness in my heart, I’ve decided not to return."

“I’ll miss nurturing all the new talent but, most of all, being a part of a show that I helped from day one become an international phenomenon.”

Although she did not specify any reasons for her decision, it is thought she quit over a pay row.

Fronted by Ryan Seacrest, American Idol is the most popular show in the US, with the last series drawing an average 26.3 million viewers per episode.

Last night a spokesman for Victoria declined to comment.

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