Following last week’s appearance as a guest judge on American Idol, Harry Connick Jr. was shocked to learn of AI alum Randy Jackson’s exit. However, that doesn’t meant the sultry singer/actor is taking a permanent spot in the judging seat anytime soon. The Hope Floats actor was once again forced to debunk rumors which suggest he’s in the running for a spot at the judging table.
E! News was the first to inform Connick Jr. of Jackson’s exit, which was officially confirmed Thursday evening. “I had not heard that!" Connick Jr. responded to the news.
Additional reports that the entire judging table will see a makeup over following the alleged upcoming firing of Mariah Carey, Nicki Minaj and Keith Urban.
Connick Jr. was first approached to join the judging table back in 2010, and again following his appearance on this week’s episode.
Still despite the rumors, he remains stunned at Jackson’s decision to leave the show following a 12 season run. “I'm actually a little bit in shock about Randy," he continued. "I'm sorry for Idol, he's a talented guy. But I'm happy for him. I'm sure that he's going to go off and do what he needs to do, so congratulations to him."
Fox has not confirmed if Minaj, Urban and Carey will in fact be booted from the show.
image: FOX