American Idol has put countless unknowns on the map. From Kelly Clarkson to Katharine McPhee and many others, it has made stars out of ordinary people and extraordinary singers. But it’s also made bigger stars out of its famous judges. American Idol returns for its twelfth season this January, though it’s unclear if the show’s original judge, Grammy Award winning producer Randy Jackson will be returning. Jackson comes to “Starting Point” this morning to talk about the rumors behind who will fill the seats for former judges Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler, and maybe his own, and a cause that’s very important to him, diabetes education and awareness.

Jackson doesn’t confirm whether he will stay or go. “American Idol is an amazing show,” Jackson only says. “Just don’t believe everything you hear,” he adds. He does confirm, however, that Mariah Carrie will be one of the new hosts.

Jackson also openly discusses his fight against diabetes. “I’m suffering with type 2 diabetes,” he says. “When I was diagnosed back in 2003, I didn’t know that I had it.” He acknowledges that, like him, many are unaware that they have it. So he’s teamed up with American Idol to get the word out with the educational and awareness program called “Taking Diabetes to Heart.”

“I stress people to go and see their doctor often,” Jackson says. “This is something that’s kinda very near and dear to my heart.” Jackson feels “there’s never enough information out there to help people.” And Jackson goes by a message his dad would always tell him, “’It’s not what you hear; sometimes it’s who you hear it from. 'So listen to the dawg, baby!”