Johnston, not Abdul, joining 'Betty' cast

LOS ANGELES, Aug. 24 (UPI) -- Kristen Johnston is to take over a recurring role for which Paula Abdul was originally considered on the U.S. comedy series "Ugly Betty," Usmagazine.com said.

The casting news came Monday, shortly after Abdul announced she would not return as a judge on "American Idol" next season.

Johnston is best known for her work on TV's "3rd Rock from the Sun" and "ER," as well as the films "Music & Lyrics" and "Bride Wars."

Usmagazine.com said Johnston will begin playing quirky office temp Helen in "Ugly Betty's" Oct. 9 Season 4 premiere.

Entertainment Weekly said Abdul was replaced because her list of demands were considered unreasonable.

"I've always considered myself a poor man's Paula Abdul," Johnston told EW.