Randy Jackson leaving 'American Idol'

Randy Jackson, the last remaining figure -- or last holdout, if you prefer -- from the glory days of "American Idol," has formally announced his departure from the show. 

The statement was first posted on the entertainment news site, Deadline: “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.”

Good for Jackson, who actually deploys no hyperbole in this statement, but in true dawg-like fashion, pretty much says it all. One of the most successful shows in TV history, and he was a big part of it. Honestly, a key part of it.

Let the tributes flow. And they will flow, right? But here's mine: Randy Jackson was my favorite judge, and -- in my mind -- the best judge over "Idol's" long rule. He "played the game" after all, as a very successful session musician before this and of course base with Journey.

He tried, as judge, to be thoughtful and constructive -- no giggles, or drama, or snark, just basic meat-and-potatoes insights. He was dropped as a judge a couple of years ago, hung around as a mentor, but that role seemed redundant, and was clearly a big comedown. 

The glory days are indeed over. It is now official.