Idol Speculation

Paula Abdul has always been cuddlier with the American Idol hopefuls than her co-judges. But has the talent show's softie gone too far? Tabloids are reporting that Abdul allegedly had an affair with former contestant Corey Clark and promised to help him launch a music career before he was booted from the show in 2003. The other networks are circling: ABC's Primetime Live will explore claims of behind-the-scenes misbehavior at Idol, and Fox honchos are worried that ABC may have incriminating video of the couple. Abdul's rep issued a statement last week calling Clark "a liar and opportunist" trying "to generate interest in a book deal." Liar? Opportunist? Someone tell that man he's on the wrong reality show.