Even if the reports are true that Fox wants to
replace all four judges on American Idol next season, it doesn't matter to
Randy Jackson.
Jackson tells E! News exclusively that he's done
with the show.
"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," he says. "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."
Despite the multiple changes to Idol over
the years, Jackson is the only original judge who has remained with the show.
"There's always been chaos with American Idol, but this year it's
been more than ever," a source said.
Rumors of an upcoming bloodbath suggest that all
four judges have options to return for another season, but Fox won't renew
them. Our source insists there was never an option on Jackson's deal.
But it's not like Jackson doesn't have enough to
keep him busy. In addition to new music (including Collaborations with Mariah
Carey), sources tells us he's working on a new book, film and television
development deals and his growing branding business, which already includes
eyewear, watches and guitars.
A rep for Fox declined to comment.
E! News
