By GEORGINA LITTLEJOHN


Old married couple: Paula Abdul arrived at the Today show in New York yesterday where she spoke about her friendship with Simon Cowell ahead of tonight's US X Factor

They had a love-hate relationship that kept viewers on the edge of their seat as they rowed and sniped at each other as judges on American Idol.

And while many will be left wondering whether sparks are set to fly once more between Paula Abdul and Simon Cowell, she has insisted that they now have a fantastic relationship.

The pair have been reunited for the US X Factor, which starts tonight, and Paula said they get along very well.


Excited: Paula, who stopped and signed autographs for fans, said she felt 'blessed' to be part of the show

She made the comments on the Today show yesterday morning as she jetted into New York to promote the new series.

Paula spoke to host Ann Curry about being reunited with Cowell, two years after she quit as a judge on American Idol.

She said: 'Maybe because I'm a glutton for punishment? Or maybe it's because we've established quite an amazing friendship.


Feeling a bit chilly? Paula wrapped up in a black mac as she dashed from her car to the studios

'We're like an old married couple without the sex - by choice! We get along so well. It took ten years to understand each other.'

She also said Cowell had taught her a lot and added: 'I've always known I'm a strong woman but he's really taught me some inner strength. He always provoked me and challenged me and the more I stood up for myself and the more I stood up to him the more he embraced me.'

Paula joins Cowell, Nicole Scherzinger and L.A. Reid on the judging panel as they search for America's next big star.


Teeny tiny: The petite star looked very wee in her slim-fitting black outfit as she arrived at the Late Show with David Letterman


Old friends: Paula laughs as she chats to Letterman


Love-hate: But Paula said she and Simon Cowell now have a great friendship even if it took them ten years to understand each other


[HD] Paula Abdul Interview On Live With Regis & Kelly 09-20-2011 (Part 1)


[HD] Paula Abdul Interview On Live With Regis & Kelly 09-20-2011 (Part 2)


source: dailymail