Randy Jackson leaving 'American Idol': Report
"The dog" is leaving the building.
Randy Jackson is leaving "American Idol" after 12 years as a judge on the show and its only original member from the panel, he told E! News on Thursday.
"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 said in a statement to E! News.
"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," he said.
Jackson's announcement comes as rumors swirl around the show that its producers want to replace all four judges after this season, with E! citing one source who said, "There's always been chaos with 'American Idol,' but this year it's been more than ever."
E! added that Jackson, 56, is working on new book, film and TV deals, as well as his Randy Jackson branded products.
The current line-up comprises Jackson, Nicki Minaj, Keith Urban and Mariah Carey, and has seen a 22% dip in ratings this season, according to The Wrap.
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