It appears Paula Abdul quit American Idol in a fit of emotion after receiving a second offer from show producers which she didn’t like.

That’s why Ryan Seacrest said on his KISS FM show this morning (August 5) that he was “stunned” and “shocked,” when he heard the news by reading reports about it. “I’m just bummed because we’ve worked together for so many years. It’s sad.”

Ryan also touched upon speculation that Paula’s surprise announcement was a way of drumming up publicity. “Everyone that I’ve passed today here has asked is it true? Is it a publicity stunt?,” he said. “As far as I know, it’s real. At this point she’s decided to leave.”

As for whether there could be a reversal? “I would love that. I think that would be fantastic for all of us. That would be great.”

He added: “Obviously she has her reasons for doing it and if she didn’t feel like she was getting what she needed. I understand that, too.”

For the record, Ryan signed a massive Idol deal last month worth $45 million for three years.