When Paula Abdul reportedly turned down her final contract offer from “American Idol,” two questions immediately emerged. What else can she do that earns her that much money for half a year of work? And who would replace her as the designated foil for Simon Cowell’s barbs?

That second question has led to a lot of speculation and conjecture, which keeps the show in the news even during its off-season, which makes everyone at 19 Entertainment and Fox very happy. At the moment, it appears that the show’s producers are planning to keep the judging fraternity a foursome, with another woman replacing Paula. Guest judges will fill that spot for auditions, with a permanent replacement named in time for the start of the next season in January.

Paula’s particular blend of sympathy and loopiness is irreplaceable, but there are still a number of women who could fill her soundbite quota. Don’t expect a decision to be made anytime soon, as the show almost certainly wants to keep the hype going as long as it can. But some names are already being discussed.

When Paula Abdul  reportedly turned down her final contract offer from “American Idol,” two questions immediately emerged. What else can she do that earns her that much money for half a year of work? And who would replace her as the designated foil for Simon Cowell’s barbs?

That second question has led to a lot of speculation and conjecture, which keeps the show in the news even during its off-season, which makes everyone at 19 Entertainment and Fox very happy. At the moment, it appears that the show’s producers are planning to keep the judging fraternity a foursome, with another woman replacing Paula. Guest judges will fill that spot for auditions, with a permanent replacement named in time for the start of the next season in January.

Paula’s particular blend of sympathy and loopiness is irreplaceable, but there are still a number of women who could fill her soundbite quota. Don’t expect a decision to be made anytime soon, as the show almost certainly wants to keep the hype going as long as it can. But some names are already being discussed.