Jennifer Lopez Officially Leaving American Idol
Jennifer Lopez has finally made a decision about American Idol: she’s leaving the show. According to The Hollywood Reporter, the 42 year-old singer and actress announced the news on Ryan Seacrest’s radio show. “I honestly feel like the time has come for me to doing the other things I do that I’ve kind of put on hold because I love Idol so much,” she said.
The news follows Steven Tyler’s departure from the show, which he announced yesterday in an epic statement. “I strayed from my first love, Aerosmith, and I’m back — but instead of begging on my hands and knees, I’ve got two fists in the air and I’m kicking the door open with my band. The next few years are going to be dedicated to kicking some serious ass — the ultimate in auditory takeover…On Nov. 6, we are unleashing our new album, Music from Another Dimension on the Earth, Moon, Mars, and way beyond the stars … “Idol” was over-the-top fun, and I loved every minute of it … Now it’s time to bring Rock Back. ERMAHGERD.”
Jennifer did say that she’d be happy to appear on Idol in some kind of guest capacity. Meanwhile, Seacrest says he had nothing to do with the decision; it was all between J-Lo and Fox. “It’s one of those special things in your life that you don’t want to walk away from,” Jennifer explained further, adding that money had nothing to do with it (she was paid $12 million for the job this past season).
Does this officially turn Idol into a sinking ship? Viewership for the show, which just completed its 11th season, was down 25 percent in viewership (though the finale still attracted 21 million viewers). Certainly there are other celebs who’d be willing to sit at the judges’ table for mega bucks – but will it be worth it?
Especially with celebs already being reserved by The Voice and X Factor – who’s left to be a judge? I say it’s time to bid adieu to Idol – but leave us your suggestions in the comments.
