Long before Randy Jackson became a household name as a judge on American Idol in 2002, he was already making waves as a legendary bassist, producer, and record executive. Known for his work with Journey, Randy has always been open about his personal battles, especially his health struggles, while navigating the high-stakes world of Hollywood. Let's dive into his journey, from his diagnosis with Type 2 diabetes to his incredible weight loss story, and where he is today. Keep reading to get the full scoop on Randy’s story.
Randy Jackson's Health Struggles: The Battle with Diabetes
As one of the original judges alongside Simon Cowell and Paula Abdul, Randy was instrumental in turning American Idol into a cultural phenomenon. He helped launch the careers of icons like Kelly Clarkson and Carrie Underwood. But behind the scenes, Randy was dealing with a major health crisis. During the show's second season, the Louisiana-born musician was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes. This diagnosis was a wake-up call that set him on a path to transform his life.
In his book, Body With Soul, Randy reflects on his diagnosis: "It’s a curse to be saddled with a disease that's life-threatening and that you can't completely get rid of (though you can certainly manage it). But it’s also a blessing to get that huge wake-up call." This moment became the catalyst for Randy's journey toward better health and wellness.
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In 2003, Randy underwent gastric bypass surgery, a life-changing decision that came after he weighed over 350 pounds. The procedure helped him lose 114 pounds, and he’s been vocal about maintaining his weight loss. His secret? A five-meal-a-day plan filled with fish, fresh veggies, and fruits. Randy’s dedication to his health has been nothing short of inspiring, proving that with the right mindset and support, anyone can overcome their challenges.
Why Did Randy Jackson Leave 'American Idol'?
After 12 unforgettable seasons as a judge on American Idol, Randy decided it was time to move on. In May 2013, he made the announcement that shocked fans worldwide. But why did he leave? In a statement at the time, Randy said, "To put all of the speculation to rest, after 12 years of judging on American Idol, I have decided to leave after this season. I am very proud of how we forever changed television and the music industry."
Despite his departure, Randy returned as a mentor for season 13, stepping in for Jimmy Iovine. However, by season 14, he confirmed that his time on the show had come to an end. In a statement to Deadline in November 2014, he explained, "After 13 seasons, I felt now was the perfect time to leave American Idol. I’m proud to have been a part of a series that discovered some incredible artists and will go down in history as one of the most successful television shows ever. A true original, Idol started it all. Onto what’s next."
Where Is Randy Jackson Now?
Since leaving American Idol, Randy hasn’t slowed down. He joined the cast of the Name That Tune revival as the bandleader, continuing to showcase his musical expertise. Beyond his career, Randy has remained committed to his health. During a May 2022 interview with People, he shared his approach to maintaining his weight loss: "If I really feel like I need to have a piece of candy, I have a small piece so that in my mind, I’m not saying, ‘No, no, no.’ The more you deny yourself, the more you’re going to go on a bender and have 18 candy bars without stopping at some point."
