Steven Tyler quits American Idol, is JLo leaving too?

Steven Tyler has just left American Idol fans in shock. After weeks of speculation that his fellow judge, Jennifer Lopez, was leaving the show, he’s thrown everyone for a loop and announced that after two seasons with the hit show, he will not be returning.

Steven and JLo had joined longtime judge Randy Jackson during the show’s tenth season, after Ellen Degeneres, Kara DioGuardi and Simon Cowell moved on. Did someone install a revolving door at Nokia Theater? FOX has been going through judges quicker than Bravo goes through housewives!

Earlier this afternoon, Steven announced the following statement:

“After some long … hard … thoughts … I’ve decided it’s time for me to let go of my mistress ‘American Idol’ before she boils my rabbit. I strayed from my first love, AEROSMITH, and I’m back – but instead of begging on my hands and knees, I’ve got two fists in the air and I’m kicking the door open with my band. The next few years are going to be dedicated to kicking some serious ass – the ultimate in auditory takeover.”

Aerosmith is the best-selling American rock band of all time. Steven and the guys have sold more than 150 million albums worldwide and hold the record for the most gold and multi-platinum albums by an American group.. in case you didn’t know! In addition to his statement, Steven announced that his new album with be released on November 6, 2012.

American Idol co-creator and executive producer Simon Fuller has also released a statement regarding Steven’s departure:

“I completely understand his desire to get back to his life as the singer in America’s greatest-ever rock band. American Idol will miss him!”

Steven’s announcement comes just hours after JLo appeared on Today where she admitted to being “torn” about her return. JLo also told the daytime talk show, “I think it’s time for me to go,” which doesn’t sound very promising if you’re hoping for her return. If she does leave the show, her honey Casper Smart will surely enjoy some extra time with his lady.

As for who will be joining the show next season, Katy Perry was a prospect, but has reportedly turned the job down. In a statement to The Hollywood Reporter, Katy confirmed that she had been contacted by the show, saying, “People have reached out to me about the possibility of being involved, and it’s not right for me yet.”

Yesterday, rumors hit the web that Adam Lambert, Fergie, and Mariah Carey were all up for JLo’s spot. “It’s true they’ve talked to Adam but nothing is decided yet. Fergie is another big contender,” a source told Us Weekly. With Steven’s sudden exit, producers are sure to be scrambling to find some great talent to fill the empty seats.

Randy Jackson remains the last man standing.. well sitting. He’s been on the show since the start and doesn’t appear to be going anywhere! Thank god! Without him, us American Idol fans would have no stability. And for that, we say, “Thanks, dawg.” Once he goes, all we’ll have is Ryan. Ho hum.. When does X Factor with Britney and Simon start again?