American Idol judge Randy Jackson has spoken out about the shock departures of fellow panelists Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler.

The Aerosmith frontman announced his decision to quit taking part in the show on Thursday (July 12) and on Friday afternoon (July 13), JLo followed suit with a confirmation of her choice to walk away from the vocal talent programme.

Jackson issued an official statement to E! and praised them both for being "consummate professionals":

"Steven and Jennifer are truly two of the most talented and consummate professionals I've worked with."

"I was friends with them before we hopped on this crazy journey together and I have no doubt our friendships will continue long after. I will love them for life."

Hitmaker Adam Lambert has been linked to the upcoming new season of American Idol although nothing has been revealed about who might replace the two judges, and he explained that he would be honoured to take part:

"If they were to approach me and if they were to say, you know, 'We want you to be a judge on the show' – I would love that!"