After 13 seasons, Randy Jackson is getting ready to leave American Idol.
In a statement released yesterday, Jackson said:
“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!”
Fox and American Idol producers Fremantle Media North America and 19 Entertainment added:
“Randy has been such an integral part of American Idol since day one, 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.”
Jackson was one of the original Idol judges along with Simon Cowell and Paula Abdul, with host Ryan Seacrest being the only remaining member from the first season.
Jackson made the decision to leave the show in May 2013, but returned three months later as a mentor replacing Jimmy Iovine.
American Idol‘s 14th season will feature all three judges returning: Jennifer Lopez, Keith Urban and Harry Connick Jr.
