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`American Idol`: From left, Steven Tyler, Jennifer Lopez, Ryan Seacrest and Randy Jackson. (photo by Michael Becker/FOX)
"American Idol": From left, Steven Tyler, Jennifer Lopez, Ryan Seacrest and Randy Jackson. (photo by Michael Becker/FOX)

Steven Tyler to depart as judge on 'American Idol'; J-Lo out, too

by jmaloni
Thu, Jul 12th 2012 06:00 pm

Steven Tyler has decided to depart his role as a judge on "American Idol." Tyler served as a judge during the 10th and 11th seasons of "American Idol." He made his announcement Thursday afternoon.

On Thursday morning, judge Jennifer Lopez essentially told "Today" host Natalie Morales that she would not return for another season. She later confirmed that decision to Ryan Seacrest on his radio program.

"After some long ... hard ... thoughts ... I've decided it's time for me to let go of my mistress 'American Idol' before she boils my rabbit," Tyler said. "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."

"It's been a tremendous honor to have Steven - one of the most prolific artists in the world - on "American Idol" for the past two seasons," said Mike Darnell, president of alternative entertainment for Fox Broadcasting Company. "He's been a terrific judge, a true friend and great mentor to everyone involved with the show, and we know he'll continue to be a huge inspiration to 'Idol' hopefuls for years to come. We are very sad that Steven has chosen to focus more on his music, but we always knew when we hired a rock 'n' roll legend, he would go back to the music. We all wish him all the best and would love to have him back on the show anytime."

"Steven Tyler is a real 'Idol,' a rock legend. If you had told me 10 years ago he would be a judge on 'American Idol,' I would have thought it impossible," stated "American Idol" creator and executive producer Simon Fuller. "The fact that this became a reality and we had the pleasure of him gracing our stage for two seasons makes me very proud. I completely understand his desire to get back to his life as the singer in America's greatest-ever rock band. "American Idol" will miss him!"

"We're all very thankful and privileged that Steven joined 'American Idol' two years ago," said Cecile Frot-Coutaz, CEO, FremantleMedia. "A true music icon, he not only brought rock 'n' roll to the show, but also his exceptional taste in spotting and nurturing undiscovered talent. We will sincerely miss his poetic phrases, his remarkable creativity and his unique spirit. We're sad about his departure from the show, but understand his decision to return to music full-time and hope he'll be back to grace the 'American Idol' stage in seasons to come."

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