CELEBRITY BIRTHDAYS
Randy Jackson, the lone remaining original “American Idol” judge, won’t be returning to the Fox talent competition next season.
“Idol” host Ryan Seacrest only hinted at Jackson’s impending departure at the beginning of Thursday’s elimination episode.
“A little later on, we’ll be revealing who’s leaving our show,” joked Seacrest as he swiveled Jackson around in his chair toward him. “Maybe a head’s up?”
Apparently, Seacrest — who’s been with the show as long as Jackson — found out along with the rest of the world Thursday when the 56-year-old producer and bassist announced his departure.
Jackson said in a statement that he’s leaving “Idol” to focus on his record label and other business opportunities.
CELEBRITY BIRTHDAYS
Comedian Mort Sahl is 86. Singer Eric Burdon (The Animals, War) is 72. Actress Shohreh Aghdashloo (“24”) is 61. Actor Boyd Gaines is 60. Drummer Mark Herndon of Alabama is 58. Former MTV VJ Martha Quinn is 54. Country singer Tim Raybon of the Raybon Brothers is 50. Actor Tim Blake Nelson (“Lincoln,” “O Brother, Where Art Thou?”) is 49. Bassist Keith West of Heartland is 45. Actor Nicky Katt (“Boston Public”) is 43. Actor Coby Bell is 38. Celloist Perttu Kivilaakso of Apocalyptica is 35. Actor Jonathan Jackson is 31. Actor Cory Monteith is 31. ASSOCIATED PRESS
