Simon Opens Up On Why Paula Abdul's X Factor Deal Took So Long!

Yesterday, we were THRILLED to learn that Paula Abdul had joined X Factor US as a judge!

We were happy for Paula, who seems VERY excited to be back at Simon's side.

Now, Simon has opened up about why there was such a delay with securing Paula's deal as an X Factor judge, and he's blaming the lawyers:

"I would've canceled today (if deal hadn't gone through)."

"The issue was that these conversations had gone on long enough. It's not like I sprung this on somebody. I just thought it's time for everyone to do their job and get the deal done. I couldn't have sat in front of you lot and said (Paula) wanted to do the deal and we couldn't."

"I could just sense that the public would've been disappointed without Paula. You see how we are; we get on really well."

Sources say that one of the issues with the deal had to do with her short-lived show Live to Dance, but Simon was determined to make it work anyway:

"She's Paula Abdul. Nothing's ever easy, but I'm used to it."

All very nice to hear! There's something sweet about Simon's loyalty to Paula. We approve!

Are U happy that Paula Abdul will be joining forces with Simon once again for The X Factor US?

[Image via WENN.]