In her first interview since announcing her departure from American Idol, former judge Paula Abdul opens up about the possibility of returning to television’s top-rated show — and her newest project as a guest star on Lifetime’s Drop Dead Diva.

In a chat with TV Guide Magazine, Paula speaks candidly about her decision to leave Idol — and reveals if there is anything series producers can do to get her back.

“I don’t think I can answer that right now,” she replied when asked if she’s planning to return to the judges’ table. “I stand on principle where many people stand on money. I’m a hard-working artist. I’ve lasted in this business for 23 years. And you can’t do that unless you are good at what you do. I believe in myself and you have to have your own self respect. And sometimes decisions are very difficult to make, but I’ve always believed that at the core I’m a survivor. There’s not one thing I’ve done that I’ve really set my mind to that I’ve failed at.”

In the meantime, Paula is interested in possibly developing a talk show –not to mention she’s super exicited about her guest spot — as a judge — on the Lifetime comedy Drop Dead Diva.

“The irony is I play a fantasy version of judge Paula Abdul and I’ve never had more fun. I’m playing a real judge in a courtroom speaking as Jane’s (Brooke Elliott) conscience. I root her on and give her the gumption to do the things she needs to do to get what she wants.”

For more Paula Abdul new tell-all interview, visit TVGuide.com.