'American Idol' Season 12: Randy Jackson Out As Judge, Taking On Mentoring Role (REPORT)

Randy Jackson Out As 'Idol' Judge?
NEW YORK, NY - MAY 14: Randy Jackson attends the Fox 2012 Programming Presentation Post-Show Party at Wollman Rink - Central Park on May 14, 2012 in New York City. (Photo by Dave Kotinsky/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NY - MAY 14: Randy Jackson attends the Fox 2012 Programming Presentation Post-Show Party at Wollman Rink - Central Park on May 14, 2012 in New York City. (Photo by Dave Kotinsky/Getty Images)

Looks like the rumors are true!

While fellow judges Steven Tyler and Jennifer Lopez left the judges panel "American Idol" back in July, Randy Jackson was still hanging on -- until now.

According to TMZ, Jackson has officially exited the judges table, but will "still remain a part of the show as a 'mentor,'" TMZ says.

"I'm so excited to be joining 'Idol.' I wanted to be there today and I wish I could've been there myself to tell you," Carey told the audience at the Television Critics Associate Summer Press Tour via phone. "It happened really quickly. I can't wait to get started in a couple months."

Luckily, it seems the long search for new judges may be coming to a close: Nicki Minaj and Keith Urban are reportedly in final negotiations to join the panel. Phew!


"American Idol" returns to Fox in January 2013.

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