Steven Tyler Quits 'American Idol'

Steven Tyler is leaving "American Idol" after a two-season run as judge, Fox announced today (July 12).

"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," Tyler, who judged seasons 10 and 11 of the reality show, said in a statement. "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."

Mike Darnell, president of alternative entertainment at Fox, said that it has been a "tremendous honor" to have Steven on the show. "We are very sad that Steven has chosen to focus more on his music," said Darnell, "but we always knew when we hired a rock 'n' roll legend, he would go back to the music." He added that they would love to see Tyler back on the show in the future.

Fox has yet to make an announcement regarding the futures of the other "Idol" judges, Jennifer Lopez and Randy Jackson, both of whom are still reportedly in contract negotiations.

When J. Lo stopped by NBC's "Today" show Thursday morning, she revealed that she has still not made up her mind about her involvement in "Idol's" 12th season -- although it sounds as if she's leaning toward ending her run on the Fox reality smash, which returns in January. "I've just enjoyed it so much. But I am thinking that maybe it's time for me to go and do other things that I really love to do… but then again, I really love the show!" she laughed.