Entertainment News: randy jackson

Randy Jackson is exiting "American Idol" after 12 seasons, according to a statement Jackson gave to E! News on Thursday, May 9.

"Yo! Yo! Yo! To put all of the speculation to the rest, after 12 years of judging on 'American Idol' I have decided it is time to leave after this season," the 56-year-old told the entertainment news outlet. "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."

Randy Jackson's future at "American Idol" remains a mystery and the veteran show judge remained mum when asked about it on ABC's "The View" on an episode that aired on Monday.

In July, it was confirmed that Mariah Carey would join the FOX singing competition series as a judge, following the departures of Aerosmith rocker Steven Tyler and Jennifer Lopez, who both joined and left the series as part of casting shakeups amid declining ratings.

Randy Jackson will reportedly step down from his position as an "American Idol" judge, following the departure of Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler.

According to a TMZ report, which was carried by the New York Times, Jackson will not return to the reality series as a judge, but may take on a new role.

"American Idol" saw one of its biggest shockers of the season on Thursday's results show, when front-runner and online fan-favorite Jessica Sanchez was revealed to have earned the fewest votes, prompting judges Steven Tyler, Randy Jackson and Jennifer Lopez to storm the stage to utilize a one-time move to save her from elimination.

The tactic, which overturns results of a nationwide vote, can be used once per season before the top 5 contestants are chosen. The competition is down to its top 7 contestants.

Jennifer Lopez will return to "American Idol" next season to resume her role as a judge, Executive Producer Nigel Lythgoe says.

The 42-year-old actress and singer has not commented. It was reported in late July that Lopez was close to finalizing a deal over the matter.

The remaining 12 contestants on "American Idol" are doing an "amazing job" and have "got a sense of what it's really about," judge Randy Jackson said ahead of Thursday's elimination.

The show replaced judges and its executive producer ahead of 10th season, which began on January, following decreased ratings.