Original "American Idol" judge, Randy Jackson, to leave the show.



The only remaining original American Idol judge, Randy Jackson, is set to leave the talent show at the end of its current season.

After twelve long years of sitting on the panel of one of the most popular singing contests in the world, has confirmed that he will be bowing out to focus on his record label and other business opportunities.

The 56-year-old said in a statement:

To put all of the speculation to rest, after 12 years of judging on American Idol, I have decided to leave after this season. I am very proud of how we forever changed television and the music industry.

Randy first appeared on the panel with Simon Cowell and Paula Abdul when the competition began in 2002. Paula quit in 2009, with Simon following a year after which subsequently lead to the drop in ratings.

Rumour has it that the whole judging panel, which also includes Mariah Carey, Nicki Minaj and Keith Urban, are set to get the chop at the end of the season. Nothing official has been announced.