Paula dances around ‘X Factor’ rumors

LOS ANGELES — Paula Abdul tried to avoid commenting on the rumors she’s going to join Simon Cowell when he launches his new reality singing competition “The X Factor” next fall, but she did drop some hints about her next project.

“Drop a clue? Oh, I’m gonna be going back to my roots and doing a TV show that has something to do with my roots,” she told the “John Jay & Rich Show” on Friday morning, after dodging several questions asking her to confirm “The X Factor” rumors.

“I’m going back to doing some teaching on television in that kind of capacity,” she added. “And what else can I tell you? I might be doing something with the Laker Girls.”

In fact, Abdul’s hints could mean she is getting close to signing the deal to judge on Cowell’s show, which allows the judges to mentor contestants in the final rounds.

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Abdul said whatever project she does sign on for, she’ll be the one to announce it.

“You’ll just have to hear it from me,” she said. “I hate having to say that, but you know, there are a lot of factors.”

When pushed further and asked if she meant “X Factor,” Abdul tried to remain mum.

“Oh boy … I knew that I would not be able to say certain things,” she told the radio DJs. “I want to be able to say everything right now, but I can’t “

The DJs also asked Abdul about the current season of “American Idol,” its first without the “Straight Up” singer.

“I will forever be a fan of the show,” she said. “I love (when) they get to the point of breaking new talent.”