American Idol Judge Paula Abdul Says She’s Pain Med Free

What would a season of American Idol be without Paula Abdul slurring her critiques and scaring fans with rumors of drugged-craziness? Well apparently we’re going to find out for American Idol 2009 because Paula says she’s drug-free after a successful back operation:

“For the first time in 12 years, I am pain free. I had my 15th surgery to correct my back and neck problems last August and it worked. Finally! I had a new doctor who tried a new procedure and because of that I’m a new woman. I may have to have one more surgery in the spring but after all this, I can handle it.”

And she promises fans will see a new calm and relaxed Paula Abdul, now she’s thrown away the pain pills she was forced to pop.

The 46-year-old adds, “Not only am I pain free, but I am pain-medication free. I weaned myself off everything I’d been taking.”

Maybe this new judge, Kara DioGuardi, has really scared Paula straight! I’m interested to see if we can really tell a difference in her behavior this year.