It seems ‘American Idol’ will be losing its long standing judge Randy Jackson next season, as TMZ have reported he quit the series as a panelist this week.

However, he is expected to serve as a ‘mentor’ in the coming seasons, assisting the new judging panel and the show’s forthcoming hopefuls.

This, hinting Randy is delving even further into an ‘industry role’ of sorts, after signing onto become Mariah Carey’s manager last year.

The publication explain:

As for his replacement … sources tell us Nicki Minaj’s deal is 99% done … but still not a sure thing just yet. 

We’re told the honchos are keenly aware Mariah Carey isn’t a fan of Minaj and doesn’t want her at the table … a fact producers LOVE because they think the conflict and tension will be good for the show. 

And … we now know A.I. will once again go with a 4th judge …  we’re told producers are gunning for someone from the country music world for the third seat.  Seat number 4 is up in the air.

Finally, altough “A.I.” wanted Diddy or Kanye West … we’re told they are definitely out of the picture.

Peep Nicki and Mariah in collaborative action above with their 2010 release ‘Up Out My Face‘. …

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