Having survived all previous judge shakeups on “American Idol,” it seemed that no matter what happened this offseason, original panelist Randy Jackson would be back at the table for the twelfth season of the FOX juggernaut.
But shortly after Mariah Carey was confirmed as a new judge, rumors circulated that Jackson would not, in fact, be returning as a judge. Reports suggested he would instead serve as a mentor, while an entirely-new crop of judges offered criticism on the weekly performances. Names like Nicki Minaj, Enrique Iglesias and Keith Urban are among those who have been rumored for judging positions.
FOX is still quiet on the capacity in which Jackson will appear on the show next year, but Jackson’s former coworker and current “X Factor” judge Simon Cowell assures he will be involved.
“Just heard randy is back on idol. Right decision,” Tweeted Cowell.