At its peak in 2007, "American Idol" drew more than 37 million viewers. Last week, it sunk to a new low drawing just 11 million viewers.
"American Idol" judge Randy Jackson The last of the original "American Idol" judges is leaving the FOX series as its continues to slide in the ratings.
Randy Jackson told E! News he was done judging the once-popular talent show.
"Yo! Yo! Yo! To put all of the speculation to the rest, after 12 years of judging on American Idol I have decided it is time to leave after this season," Jackson said. "I am very proud of how we forever changed television and the music industry. It's been a life changing opportunity but I am looking forward to focusing on my company Dream Merchant 21 and other business ventures."
Jackson was one of the original three "Idol" judges, along with Paula Abdul and Simon Cowell. Abdul left the show in 2009 and Cowell departed the following year.
Jackson was joined this season by Mariah Carey, Nicki Minaj and
Keith Urban.
Ratings have been a problem for the series.
At its peak in 2007, "American Idol" drew more than 37 million viewers. Last week, it sunk to a new low drawing just 11 million viewers.