America, Meet Randy Jackson

The original three judges on American Idol's first season, circa 2002: Randy Jackson, Paula Abdul and Simon Cowell. At the time, Paula was the only famous face on the panel -- but that would soon change once the show became an overnight success.

Piano Man

Randy showed off one of his many talents -- piano -- while Paula did her best Michelle Pfeiffer impersonation alongside Simon.

Randy and Carrie

Randy prepared to embrace season-four winner Carrie Underwood as Anwar Robinson looked on.

Randy and David

Peace-ing out with season-seven champ David Cook!

Randy and Glambert

The catchphrase-loving panelist had a front row seat for one of Idol's best top two contenders, Adam Lambert.

Randy and the Revamped 'Idol' Panel

In the Post-Simon Cowell era, Randy struck a pose alongside Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler, both of whom spent two seasons on the Fox competition.

Randy and Phillip

A proud moment: Randy presented season-11 winner Phillip Phillips with an award for going quadruple platinum.

Randy and the Two Divas

Another panel make-over: Randy ushered in season 12 with new judges Keith Urban, Mariah Carey and Nicki Minaj. The latter two sparred onstage and off, fueling catfight headlines. (If there's one thing Idol sells extremely well, it's controversy.)

Lazaro Arbos

No fan of Lazaro Arbos, Randy Jackson -- whose criticism became harsher in season 12 -- called the aspiring pop star "horrible." 

Randy and Ryan

Randy posed with fellow Idol veteran Ryan Seacrest and showed off glasses from his own label, Randy Jackson Eyewear.