American Idol host Ryan Seacrest has responded to the news that Paula Abdul will not be returning for a ninth season on FOX’s top-rated reality competition.

Last night, both Paula and FOX confirmed that the former judge would be departing from the show.

“About to go to sleep when I started seeing my blackberry blow up,” Seacrest wrote on his Twitter late Tuesday. “I have read what u have read and I am shocked and saddened about Paula.”

Ryan’s recent three year $45 million deal to continue hosting Idol is believed to have promoted Paula’s failed request for a raise.

“Idol and the cast have grown with each other over the last 8 seasons..I can’t imagine the panel without puala. She’s a star @ a great friend,” Ryan continued in his Tweet. “Spoke to randy..hope to speak with paula privately overnight.”