This time he means it. Randy Jackson, who has been a part of “American Idol” since its debut in 2002, will not be on the show when it returns in January. Why this time?

Jackson had first announced his departure from the show in May 2013, though later was invited back to the competition series as a mentor in season 13.

Getty Images
Getty Images
loading...

According to Variety Magazine, “Randy has been such an integral part of ‘American Idol’ since day one, both as a judge and as a mentor. He’s provided great advice and support, shaping the success of so many Idols we have discovered over the years. We wish him all the best in his next chapter. Randy will always be part of our ‘Idol’ family and we hope he’ll visit from time to time,” Fox, “American Idol” and show producers FremantleMedia North America and 19 Entertainment in a statement.

Season 14 of “Idol” is set to bow with Jennifer Lopez, Keith Urban and Harry Connick Jr.

That leaves Ryan Seacrest as the only original member on the show.

More From Rockford's New Country Q98.5