‘American Idol’ season 12: Randy Jackson reportedly out as judge
After months of rumors surrounding his future on “American Idol,” it now looks like Randy Jackson is going to be officially out of the judging panel after spending 11 seasons dishing out advice, saying the word “dawg” past its prime, and wearing ridiculous outfits that lead us to believe that it is still Halloween.
According to TMZ, Randy is going to be shifting over to a brand-new position as an in-house mentor for the contestants, which is something that does make us question the future of someone else in Jimmy Iovine. It’s possible that the Interscope head is interested in taking a more behind-the-scenes role, as he has already shown some discomfort with being a figure on live television versus someone who gives singers advice on how to best carve a career for themselves in the industry.
So who is for sure on the current panel? Mariah Carey is the only person who has been officially named, and Nicki Minaj’s deal is close to done. Reports are that there is indeed a four-person panel being crafted, and we know that Keith Urban is a favorite for one spot (though it could end up going to another country artist) while the fourth and final position is a wild card. Who do we want to see fill it? Adam Lambert — and we’ll explain more why in an editorial piece a little bit later in the day. (A teaser: there are multiple reasons why the show needs to make this happen.)
At one point in time, Randy was actually a pretty good judge — but even since the installation of Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler, many of his critiques have grown stale, and he also just doesn’t seem to have the same sort of fun he once had. With all this in mind, a change is probably the best for him.
Do you think that Randy shifting positions is the right move for both him and the show? If you want to check out who is officially returning for the new season, be sure to head on over to this link.
Photo: Fox
lynda
August 31, 2012 @ 10:49 am
I totally agree with sharon. All I can add is I think Nicki M will ultimately ruin the show if she is picked. I see no positive reason what she could offer. She cannot sing, and certainly is in no position to give advise with her talent and performances. Seen them all- dreadful IMO. keith urban imo is has good as any country judge, which I do admit they need whereas it seems to be a country show lol Adam lambert IMO would be perfect on so many levels and at this point will be the only reason to keep watching after 11 years.
Sharon
August 31, 2012 @ 10:32 am
I’ve always liked Randy but think he should step down as a judge maybe even a few years ago. He seemed to always be in Simon Cowell’s shadow trying to upstage him but didn’t really accomplish it.
As Far as the judges go I don’t know why people are certain Nicki Minaj is a definite. I really hope she’s not as she’s not going to appeal to AI’s mainstream viewing audience and will certainly turn off a lot of people with her bazaar appearance which is not attractive. She no mega star just a female rapper. Keith Urban seems like a nice guy but lacks charisma. Adam definitely would be the best choice out of all of the names floating around and I’m not just saying that because I’m a huge fan. If I didn’t think he would be the perfect judge for this show I’d say it. Just maybe the producers will surprise us all and soon I hope.