TMZ.com is reporting that Randy Jackson was kept on the hit reality TV show American Idol so viewers would still have an “original connection” to the show, apparently Ryan Seacrest doesn’t count!

Earlier this week it was announced that Kara DioGuardi was fired from the show, while Ellen DeGeneres chose to leave the show over time commitments and the fact that she didn’t like having to give negative criticism.

Seriously Ellen you didn’t realize you would have to criticize people on a singing talent show?

Simon Cowell of course left at the end of the season so he could work on bringing his hugely popular UK show The X Factor to the U.S., a deal reportedly worth $500 Million with Sony Studios.

More of the same!

1. Jennifer Lopez Won’t Be Newest American Idol Judge
2. Idol’s 9th Life Takes New Twists
3. American Idol Age Limit Lowered To 15, Audition Dates Announced
4. Oh So That’s Why Simon Cowell’s a Jerk
5. Perez Hilton For American Idol!

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Posted by Chris Franklin as TV at 3:24 PM UTC on 31/07/2010