Imagine having to put in 12-hour days at work — but it’s doing something you love that brings joy to millions. That’s a day in the life of veteran television producer Randy Douthit, who has spent decades working behind the scenes with one of America’s most beloved TV personalities: Judge Judith Sheindlin. Douthit is the mind behind the hit daytime courtroom show Judge Judy and now, Judy Justice, on Amazon Prime Video.
As the executive producer and director of Judy Justice, Douthit is known for his tireless work ethic. Even after over 25 years making courtroom TV, he often puts in 12-hour days to ensure the show’s success.
But for Douthit, it’s not just about the hard work — it’s about the love he has for the show. He and Sheindlin have entertained generations of Americans, and this gives him the passion to power through even the longest days.
“We do sometimes have long days, and there is a mental energy that is tapped when you are focusing on making a show as it is happening and also on what it will look like afterward — what the audience will see,” Douthit says, adding that he finds it “simultaneously taxing and rejuvenating.”
Where Randy Douthit Finds the Energy for 120-Episode Seasons
As the fourth season of Judy Justice gears up, Douthit is once again steering the production of 120 new episodes of courtroom excitement. From the initial case selection to the final edit, Douthit is hands-on at every stage. This level of involvement requires immense focus and energy. To keep himself energized for these marathon production sessions, Douthit follows a careful morning routine that sets the tone for his long workdays. His secret? Meditation.
“The one thing I recommend everyone do: Meditate every morning,” he said. “Sit quietly in a space alone. Quiet all the noises your mind makes. Start at five minutes a day, then 10 minutes, and 15 minutes. Eventually your mind will quiet and wonderful ideas will start showing up.”
He also works out three mornings a week, sharing, “That is key to keeping my energy up, both immediately and throughout the day.”
These habits are critical to maintaining the standards of America’s favorite courtroom TV program. Randy Douthit is far from complacent, even after producing over 12,000 episodes over the years.
“Every episode demands focus, creativity, and an eye for detail to keep viewers engaged,” he says.
All in a Day’s Work
For Douthit, a typical workday combines routine and creativity. Both are necessary to maintain his energy and motivation.
His day often starts with meetings, followed by editing sessions where he reviews footage from the day’s cases, fine-tuning each episode to keep audiences on their toes.
“I meet with our team, edit shows, prepare show schedules, and decide which cases should be shown together in an episode,” Randy Douthit explains.
Structure is essential to his daily life, and he builds a similar structure into each episode — they should be comforting and recognizable, but never boring. This approach has helped make Judy Justice a success. But more than that, it’s made Judge Judith Sheindlin into an iconic figure in American entertainment.
Douthit’s ability to turn out hundreds of episodes of courtroom entertainment has earned Judy Justice two Daytime Emmys for Outstanding Legal/Courtroom Program since its transition to the streaming platform Amazon Prime Video. Judge Judy has famously said that her only hobby is work. To keep up with her, Douthit must be ready to match her intensity and focus in every aspect of production.
Still in Session: Judy Justice is Here to Stay
At 82 years old, Judge Judith Sheindlin is far from finished with her stint as America’s favorite judge on Judy Justice. And with Randy Douthit behind the scenes, keeping every case engaging, she’s sure to endure.
Judy Justice recently picked up a multiyear syndication deal with 211 U.S. broadcast TV networks, ensuring court will be in session for as long as Sheindlin wants to hold the gavel. Douthit’s heavy workload won’t be getting lighter any time soon. But he doesn’t mind.
“My days are filled with purpose and the kind of energy that comes from doing what you love,” he says.
