Randy Jackson is officially calling it quits from American Idol. The musician and producer has held a spot in the judging seat for the last twelve seasons- marking the last and final originals judges to be leaving the singing competition.
According to USA Today, Jackson ended long running speculation that h would be leaving the show in statement released by his publicist.
“Yo! Yo! Yo! To put all of the speculation to rest, after twelve years of judging on American Idol I have decided to leave after this season,” the statement reads. “I am very proud of how we forever changed television and the music industry. It's been a life changing opportunity but I am looking forward to focusing on my company Dream Merchant 21 and other business ventures."
Jackson’s confirmation that he will leave the show comes after an insider suggested that all four judges including executive producer Nigel Lythgoe would be getting the boot.
Reports that Fox officials were desperately trying to replace Mariah Carey with former judge Jennifer Lopez also surfaced earlier this month.
USA Today notes that ratings from Idol have been quickly slipping since the addition of fellow talent show competitors The Voice, The X Factor and America’s Got Talent. Rating from this year alone have slipped roughly 20%.
image: FOX
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