SIMON'S NEW SHOW MAY SAVE SKELETAL PAULA ABDUL

Paula Abdul has dropped to below 100 pounds - and friends and family fear she's headed for a bulimia relapse unless Simon saves her!.

The 47-year-old singer/choreographer - who weighed more than 105 until recently - was treated for bulimia at a Midwest clinic in 1994. At that time, her weight plummeted to a dangerously low 86 pounds.

Since leaving American Idol in August, she's been working out feverishly and skipping meals, leaving her looking scary skinny. Now those close to her are worried that she could be facing another eating disorder battle, revealed a close pal.

"Her legs have become very thin, and her clothes are beginning to hang off her," continued the pal.
Paula claims she's simply trying to stay in the best shape possible for future work projects - like her highly anticipated Las Vegas extravaganza.

Now, with the new season of Idol preeming tonight, Paula regrets leaving the super-popular show.

"Right now, Paula is kicking herself for leaving Idol,'" confided the source. "And those close to her are scared to death that she's fallen back into her old ways - binge eating, followed by purging.

"Paula's weight is below 100 and dropping. We're worried about her and hoping she turns it around soon."

Industry sources say that with Simon Cowell officially departing AI at the end of the season to launch his new X-Factor show in the US, he wants Paula to rejoin him --  as a judge.

"I have gone on record with this before: I adore Paula," Cowell said. "Whatever happens, I will be working with her in some way."

THAT should put the spring back in Paula's step AND some poundage on her skeletal frame.