Girls Aloud Cheryl Cole has reportedly turned down an $8 million offer to replace Paula Abdul as a judge on American Idol.

The girl bander — voted FHM’s “Sexiest Woman” earlier this year — became a TV star in Britain after replacing Sharon Osbourne on The X Factor in 2008.

Music mogul Simon Cowell reportedly lobbied for the 26-year-old to join him on television’s most popular talent show as Paula’s future on American Idol hangs in the balance. Last week, a manager for the “Forever Your Girl” star told The Los Angeles Times that it’s unlikely she will return for the show’s 2010 run.

But Cheryl has decided against the move because she wants to remain in the UK where she can keep a close eye on her reportedly unfaithful husband, soccer star Ashley Cole.

A friend of Cheryl’s told the Daily Express: “Cheryl hasn’t had any TV meetings since she’s been over there. It would mean she would have to leave Britain. She wouldn’t leave Ashley behind. She’s there to work on her new album. She only wants to focus on her music.”