Entertainment

Ryan Seacrest Is The Only Person Who Hasn’t Abandoned ‘American Idol’

Kaitlan Collins Contributor
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Randy Jackson announced Tuesday that he is leaving “American Idol” after 13 long seasons, making Ryan Seacrest the last remaining original member on the show.

The show used to boast some of the highest ratings in television during its peak seasons, 2006 and 2007. During its 12th season, it had 31 percent fewer viewers than the year before. The show, which can boast three — maybe four — successful winners, has seen its original judges leave since season eight.

Jackson released this statement Tuesday:

“I’m proud to have been a part of a series that discovered some incredible artists and will go down in history as one of the most successful television shows ever. A true original, Idol started it all. Onto what’s next.”

Paula Abdul was the first to go, then the always-negative Simon Cowell, and in an attempt to resuscitate the show, “Idol” brought on a myriad of replacement judges — ranging from Ellen DeGeneres, Mariah Carey, Steven Tyler, Jennifer Lopez and Nicki Minaj — but most only stayed one season, with the exception of Urban. (RELATED: Clay Aiken Loses Again)

The show’s 14th season begins in January, with Keith Urban, Jennifer Lopez and Harry Connick Jr. acting as judges.