LOS ANGELES — “American Idol’s” game of musical chairs may have taken another casualty as new reports claim Randy Jackson is vacating his post as judge — a spot he’s held since the singing competition premiered in 2002. Jackson is reportedly stepping away from the judges’ table but would continue to play a role in the show as a mentor to contestants.

Pop diva Mariah Carey became the highest paid judge in reality TV when she inked a deal, reportedly worth $18 million, to replace Jennifer Lopez. Carey remains the only confirmed judge.