Aerosmith frontman Steven Tyler announced Thursday that he will not be returning as a judge on “American Idol” next season.
In a statement from Fox publicity, he said, “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,” said Tyler. “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 a-- – 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.”
Fox’s President of Alternative Entertainment Mike Darnell praised Tyler for his two years on “Idol.”
“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,” he said. “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.”
There is no official word as to whether or not Jennifer Lopez and Randy Jackson will return to “Idol," but Lopez suggested she will not be either.
In an interview with the "Today Show," she said, "I love everybody, I love all the guys on the show, I love the family that's there ... but I am thinking it's time for me to go and do other things I love to do."
Earlier this week, it was reported that Randy Jackson would be replaced by former "Idol" contestant Adam Lambert.
