The Hollywood Reporter has learned that Randy Jackson is leaving American Idol. He’s been with the competition reality show in one way or another since the show premiered on FOX in 2002
Idol producers FremantleMedia North America and 19 Entertainment released a statement:
Randy has been such an integral part of American Idol since Day 1, both as a judge and as a mentor. He’s provided great advice and support, shaping the success of so many Idols we have discovered over the years. We wish him all the best in his next chapter. Randy will always be part of our Idol family and we hope he’ll visit from time to time.
Randy releases a statement on his departure:
After 13 seasons I felt now was the perfect time to leave American Idol. I’m proud to have been a part of a series that discovered some incredible artists and will go down in history as one of the most successful television shows ever. A true original, Idol started it all. Onto what’s next.
Randy stepped down from the judges panel after season 12, only to return as in-house mentor, now it looks like he’s really gone for good–except for those few guest appearances FOX mentioned in their statement.
Or is he? We’ve heard this before, and somehow, the dawg always manages to find his way home. Heh.
