Paula Abdul is taking pre-emptive measures in light of a controversy sparked by an upcoming ABC special on “American Idol.”
Though the exact nature of the “Primetime Live” special, now named “Fallen Idol,” remains unknown, ABC has said it will “explore explosive claims about behind-the-scenes activities” at the Fox talent contest.”
Reports have speculated that it will be based around Corey Clark, a contestant who was released from the show in 2003 after producers learned about a past arrest. He is now trying to sell a tell-all book about his experiences with the program. This includes details about an alleged affair with Abdul, one of the three judges on the show.
On Tuesday, a spokesperson for Abdul released a statement to syndicated entertainment show “Access Hollywood”:
“Paula Abdul will not dignify the false statements made by Corey Clark with a response. Mr. Clark is an admitted liar and opportunist who engages in unlawful activities. He is communicating lies about Paula Abdul in order to generate interest in a book deal.”
In addition, the Los Angeles Times reported Wednesday that Abdul’s lawyer, Marty Singer, sent a letter to ABC threatening legal action if the network airs the report.
Simon Cowell, the show’s more notorious judge, defended Abdul on the show “Extra” Tuesday.
“Paula, to be fair to her, will spend more time backstage with the contestants giving encouragement. But that’s not a bad thing,” Cowell said. “I think (the accusations) are rubbish. I think this is a guy who’s out there to publish a book.”
The third judge, Randy Jackson, and host Ryan Seacrest also appeared on various programs Tuesday to defend Abdul and “American Idol.”
The Associated Press was unable to reach Clark for comment.
The hourlong “Primetime Live” report by anchor John Quinones is scheduled May 4 (10 p.m. ET).
No mention was made of the ABC special on Tuesday night’s episode.
One of the remaining six contestants was to be eliminated Wednesday night.
Credit: Yahoo/AP
