Long time American Idol judge Randy Jackson announced in May he was leaving the show, but it looks like his reign hasn’t completely come to an end.
Deadline reports that Jackson may return for the upcoming American Idol season 13 as a mentor, replacing Jimmy Iovine. The person in the mentor position has typically critiqued each contestant as they perform during the live shows, amongst other places, but does not sit at the judging table.
If in the same position as Iovine, Jackson would be appearing on nearly every episode of the forthcoming season.
Fox president Kevin Reilly confirmed last month that they were hoping to have Jackson involved to some degree but wouldn’t comment on what he’d be doing. Having him replace Iovine is a logical step because the music producer wasn’t resonating with the audience, in our opinion.
For viewers it may be a bit jarring to see Jackson somewhere else on the show other than the judging table. For the first time he’ll be overshadowed by three to four other judges in a higher position than he.
Jackson and host Ryan Seacrest have been a part of the show since the very beginning. Season 13 will see yet another shake up for the long running singing competition; Mariah Carey and Nicki Minaj departed after season 12, but Keith Urban will remain on board.
Rumors state that Jennifer Lopez is in talks to return to Idol to take back one of the judging chairs. Her boyfriend seemed to have confirmed the news earlier this week.
American Idol premieres this January. Thanks, Deadline.
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