If you've noticed Randy Jackson looking leaner since his days on "American Idol," it’s no coincidence. The music icon has been on a personal health journey since having gastric bypass surgery back in 2003, shedding an impressive 114 pounds. Since then, he’s been working tirelessly to maintain his weight loss and focus on overall wellness. Now, at 63, he’s sharing his secrets with Closer.
Randy opens up about how he’s developed strategies over the years to keep his body and mind in top shape. "For years, I’ve been figuring out ways to treat my body right after all the years I treated it wrong," Randy exclusively tells Closer. Alongside crafting new TV projects, the legendary musician—who's worked with everyone from Journey to Mariah Carey—has founded Unify Health Labs. This new venture focuses on wellness products designed to benefit not just himself, but others looking to live healthier lives.
But for all his professional accomplishments, Randy reveals that being a father to his three children is his greatest role. "Being a dad is the most important thing I do," he says. "Having kids makes you realize just how precious life really is."
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Scroll on for Closer’s exclusive Q&A with Randy Jackson!
It's great to see you in such incredible shape! What inspired you to dive into creating nutritional supplements with gut-health boosters?
When I decided to create Unify Health Labs, I knew I wanted to bring together a team of experts who could help design products that truly make a difference. During my research, I learned something profound: most diseases start in the gut. It hit me—our health is directly tied to what we eat. And let’s be honest, keeping the weight off after surgery is the real challenge. That’s why I became so passionate about finding sustainable ways to maintain my health and share that knowledge with others.
How are you feeling these days, and what are some of your future goals?
I’m feeling fantastic! Honestly, I’d love to add a few inches to my height, but unfortunately, there’s no pill for that! [Laughs] My real goal is to keep pushing toward better health. I’m always looking for ways to improve, and I’m excited about what’s ahead.
We’d love to see you back on American Idol! Who do you stay in touch with from the show?
Simon Cowell, Paula Abdul, and I are still super close. We catch up regularly—whether it’s dinner or phone calls—and we’ve been brainstorming new project ideas for years. Maybe one day we’ll bring the original "Idol" crew back together. If Simon, Paula, Ryan Seacrest, and I reunited, it would be a dream come true. We had such amazing chemistry, and who knows? The world might need us again!
What are some of your favorite memories from your time on the show?
Working with Simon and Paula was pure magic. The auditions were always a blast, especially the quirky ones—like the guy who thought he was a lion! But watching talented artists like Carrie Underwood grow before our eyes was truly unforgettable. And let’s not forget Kelly Clarkson, Adam Lambert, Ruben Studdard, Jordin Sparks, Chris Daughtry, and of course, Fantasia. These are names that will always hold a special place in music history. As for today’s talent shows, I think they’re great entertainment. Shows like The Masked Singer bring a unique twist, but nothing beats the authenticity of American Idol. After all, Simon and I weren’t just judges—we were A&R guys helping shape stars and make records.
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People often forget that you’ve worked with some of the biggest names in music. Any standout memories?
Oh man, there are so many! Recording with Aretha Franklin was a masterclass in professionalism. She’d walk in, nail her part in a couple of takes, and then she was out the door. Mariah Carey, on the other hand, was pure joy to work with—such a gifted songwriter and singer. And then there was Bruce Springsteen, cracking jokes in the studio while creating magic. I’ve been fortunate enough to collaborate with legends like Bob Dylan, Elton John, Billy Joel, Whitney Houston, and Madonna. Each one brought something special to the table, and I tried to soak up every lesson they taught me.
You’ve come a long way from Louisiana! What was your childhood like?
Let me tell you, I was the coolest kid in town! [Laughs] Okay, maybe not, but I did have an incredible childhood. Growing up, I didn’t see the world through a lens of good or bad—I just saw it as life. My parents were amazing, even though things weren’t always perfect. Those experiences shaped who I am today, and I wouldn’t trade them for anything.
You have three kids—Taylor, Zoe, and Jordan. Do you see yourself as an inspiration to them?
I sure hope so! But honestly, some days I wonder. [Laughs] Parenting is a journey, and I try to lead by example. If I can inspire them to live authentically and pursue their passions, then I’ve done my job.
