The last remaining original “American Idol” judge, Randy Jackson, is reportedly stepping down from his current gig on the show and will instead serve as a mentor to the contestants, according to TMZ.
As to who will fill Jackson’s judging role, mum’s the word from the show’s officials thus far but tongues are wagging. There will be four judges when the show returns in January 2013 and word has it that one will hail from the world of country music.
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But stop the presses! An unnamed source told TMZ that the Idol head honchos are a little worried that Jackson might not have what it takes to fill the mentor role. They do however realize that he is a necessary factor and the tie that binds the show and keeps it together.
The wildly popular primetime show has had quite a bit of shake up recently, starting with judges Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler’s unexpected exits.
Then out of left field, songbird Mariah Carey signed on as a judge for the upcoming season. Fans of the show have been wondering about the much reported search for judges and who would accompany Carey. The names Nicki Minaj and Keith Urban have been popping up as replacements and, reportedly, they are in the final stages of a negotiations deal to become permanent fixtures on the show.
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Rumor has it that Carey is not fond of Minaj. So if the hip-hop performer gets the spot, viewers can expect lots of divatude!
Time will tell who’s leaving, who’s staying and whether the show will survive all of the drama of the revolving doors!
