MUMBAI: Randy Jackson, one of the last original members of American Idol is finally bidding adieu to the show. Jackson has been with the hit singing reality series since its launch in 2002. Last year, the music producer announced that he would be leaving the series, but eventually ended up being with the series as a mentor.

In a statement issued Tuesday November 11, Jackson said, "After 13 seasons I felt now was the perfect time to leave American Idol.  I am 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 is next."

"Randy has been such an integral part of American Idol since day one, both as a judge and as a mentor. He has 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," said FOX Broadcasting Company and series producers FremantleMedia North America and 19 Entertainment in a statement. "Randy will always be part of our Idol family and we hope he will visit from time to time." They are leaving the door open for a possible Randy return sometime during the season.

Randy's departure leaves host Ryan Seacrest as the last of the show's original stars to remain with the series. He joins returning judges Harry Connick Jr., Jennifer Lopez and Keith Urban for American Idol Season 14, which will premier in January 2015 on television channel, FOX.