Randy Jackson was one of three judges when the show debuted in 2002 . `` It 's been a life-changing opportunity , but I am looking forward to focusing on my company , Dream Merchant 21 , and other business ventures , '' he added . With Simon Cowell and Paula Abdul out , he is the only one that remains . The judge panel for American Idol has changed over time as well.
Randy Jackson was one of three judges when the show debuted in 2002 . With Simon Cowell and Paula Abdul out , he is the only one that remains . The judge panel for American Idol has changed over time as well.