When Fox introduced the stars of its unscripted shows at its upfront presentation to advertisers Monday, none of the "American Idol" judges were among them.
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It was hard not to read into their absence: TheWrap reported last week that all four current judges are on their way out.
"Where's Randy?" asked former "Idol" and now "X Factor" judge Simon Cowell, who was among those onstage. Randy Jackson announced plans last week to leave the show.
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"Ask Kevin," said "Idol" host Ryan Seacrest, referring to Fox entertainment chief Kevin Reilly. Seacrest was the sole representative of "Idol."
Of course it's possible the "Idol" judges couldn't attend the upfront because they are in Los Angeles for their show — but so are the judges of NBC's "The Voice," and NBC still managed to wrangle its judges Monday for a video message to advertisers.
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Earlier Monday, in a call with reporters, Reilly said he had no news on the "Idol" judges, but said the show would "likely" return to having three next season. He also said the judges were "welcome back, absolutely" and that "everything is on the table."