Paula Abdul on New X Factor Gig: "I Am Terrified... of Simon"

Reunited and it feels so good! After two years apart, formerAmerican Idol judges Paula Abdul and Simon Cowell are back together to critique a new slate of talent on Fox's X Factor (premiering this fall).

"I am beyond thrilled!" Abdul tells TV Guide Magazine during the first day of auditions in Los Angeles. "I am exhilarated. I am terrified... of Simon. I've really missed him, and I have no idea what to expect."

Abdul and Cowell will be joined by previously announced judges Antonio "LA" Reid and Cheryl Cole. "We're meeting for the first time right now and getting into the chemistry we have," says Abdul. "It's a brand new adventure and a different show. With passionate people, things happen."

Abdul shrugged off questions about the details of her new deal and the drama surrounding the announcement. "You know, I'm here," says Abdul. "Only Simon and I would understand. I have mentored and sought out talent for the past 20 plus years and this is exactly where I'm supposed to be."

Reporting by Carita Rizzo

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