Paula Abdul is reflecting to People on her time choreographing Janet Jackson for her groundbreaking album Control.
Speaking at the 2026 Dancers Against Cancer’s Gala Of The Stars in Beverly Hills on Oct. 22, Abdul told the outlet, “I was really fortunate and blessed at a very young age to have as my first artist as a choreographer to work with as Janet Jackson.”
She described it as a “rare gem” that comes around rarely in life. Abdul choreographed the music videos for the songs “What Have You Done for Me Lately,” “Control,” “When I Think of You,” and “Nasty.”
“You know when you’re witnessing that and to be able to be such a huge part of the Control album and all the accolades that she received from it and all the jobs and opportunities that I received from it, I will always be grateful for working with Janet,” the former American Idol judge noted. “I’m so proud to see her shining continuously, and it’s great when I get to see her tonight too.”
Abdul also reflected on her “amazing” career as a choreographer partner, admitting it had “superseded” any of her hopes and dreams. “I’m grateful that I’ve had the ability, which is one of my favorite things to do, is help pave the way and open the doors for other young talent,” she claimed.
Abdul believes her choreography “still stands the test of time today.”
Jackson and Abdul have tried to maintain their friendship. “We have crossed paths. We both have had residencies at the same time and have been able to catch up there,” Abdul told Us Weekly earlier this year. “We’ve caught up in different countries. Yes, I will always have a debt of gratitude for that entire family.”
Earlier this year, Abdul dedicated a February Instagram post to working with Jackson on Control. “Celebrating 40 years of Control and an era that changed my life forever,” Abdul wrote. “Watching Janet fully step into her power and creative voice during this time was such a beautiful experience. So many incredible memories from working together.”
