Paula Abdul: "I Was Not Fired"  7/27/07

American Idol judge Paula Abdul has denied reports she was fired from the Bratz movie, insisting she turned the role down.

The Straight Up singer has blasted rumors she was dropped from the project by movie bosses, but blames her busy schedule for parting ways with the production.

In a statement released to Us Magazine, her representative says, "She was not only taping American Idol three days at week, she was also filming her Bravo reality series Hey Paula! five days a week as well. In addition, she was in the process of not only expanding her successful QVC jewelry line but also coming up with the first scent in her new perfume line Sexy Thoughts.

"Something had to give and ultimately that was Bratz."