In four weeks, "American Idol" returns to FOX for the eighth season of the search for the next singing sensation. But as is usual for the hit series, the season isn't getting underway without a bit of controversy.

Recently, "American Idol" judge Paula Abdul opened up about the death of "American Idol" contestant and alleged stalker Paula Goodspeed, who was found in a car outside of Abdul's home, an apparent suicide.

In a phone conversation regarding season eight, executive producer Ken Warwick took the opportunity to address the issue of why an alleged stalker was put through to the judges.

"I wasn't even aware that this person was more than a fan," he told reporters. "That is the truth. I didn't know. Obviously, I would never contaminate the credibility of the show by deliberately putting somebody who was dangerous either to themselves or somebody else in front of the judges. The truth of the matter is it is a really unfortunate situation, but occasionally, these things happen."

As for reports that Paula had informed the producers of her issue with Goodspeed, Ken says, "She may have mentioned it to a security man or a junior producer. I can't honestly remember the situation. I know we have pretty ample security there. If the inference is that I would put someone in there because it was good television, I just don't do that. She didn't mention it to me. She didn't mention it to someone who had the clout to say, 'Don't let that person in.'"

One thing that Ken makes perfectly clear is that Paula's job is not in jeopardy and never has been.

"There has never been any discussion that we would want to get rid of Paula -- even if there were people in production who didn't like her," he says. "Simon [Cowell] is one of them. He waffles in and out. He likes her one minute; he loves her the next; and he can't stand her the next. Her job is not in any jeopardy. She is an integral part of this program. America loves Paula. As far as I am concerned, I hope she is there until the day it comes off the air."

"American Idol" returns to FOX at 8 p.m. on Tuesday, January 13.