Paula Abdul's headline making press tour to promote the new season of "American Idol" may be her last if reports that she is to be replaced are correct.

The former singer and dancer, who has appeared on the show since season one with co-judges Randy Jackson and Simon Cowell, could be being replaced by another singer who has had her sobriety questioned in public.

Watching Randy, Paula and Simon tear performances apart is part of the guilt pleasure that is "American Idol." However, the judges have come under criticism in the latest series of the successful show for being too cruel.

But the judges say that they are not being exceptionally mean to both good and bad superstar wannabes this year.

Despite "American Idol" boasting its highest rating premiere in the show's six year history, critics are not impressed by the criticism by the judges.

"The View" co-host Rosie O'Donnell has typically voiced her opinion, singling out an instance when the judges recentlylaughed at a contestant's appearance.