Last Original Judge, Randy Jackson Leaving American Idol

09 May, 2013

Randy Jackson, the lone original “American Idol” judge, says he won’t be returning to the Fox talent competition.

“To put all of the speculation to the rest, after 12 years of judging on ‘American Idol,’ I have decided to leave after this season,” Jackson said in a statement Thursday. “I am very proud of how we forever changed television and the music industry.”

The 56-year-old record producer and bassist called the experience a “life-changing opportunity.” He said he’s leaving “Idol” to focus on his record label and other business opportunities.

Jackson has served as a judge on all 12 seasons of “Idol.” He first appeared on the panel alongside Simon Cowell and Paula Abdul when the competition debuted in 2002, becoming famous for his easygoing “yo, dawg” rapport with contestants.

Jackson currently judges the show with pop royalty Mariah Carey, R&B diva Nicki Minaj and country star Keith Urban. His exit comes amid reports the entire panel will be replaced next season. A spokeswoman for Fox and spokesman for “Idol” producer FremantleMedia declined to comment.

Ratings for “Idol” have plummeted this season. The show has been the most popular entertainment program in prime time for nine years running, but it’s likely “Idol” will lose that distinction this season. It’s now regularly behind the NBC singing competition “The Voice” in the weekly ratings.

The current 12th season is set to conclude next week.

AP

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