Ryan Seacrest, the ubiquitous host of “American Idol,” has closed a major new three-year deal with CKX, parent of “Idol” producer 19 Entertainment, worth $15 million per year.
According to Reuters, this new deal more than triples his previous salary…
Under the pact, which is believed to be the richest ever for a reality host, Seacrest will be exclusive to CKX in broadcast TV primetime to host “Idol” or any CKX-produced show that might succeed it.
Seacrest has a separate cable deal with Comcast and is E! Entertainment’s lead anchor. He also produces such shows as E!’s “Keeping Up with the Kardashians” and ABC’s upcoming Jamie Oliver reality series.
With Seacrest’s renegotiation out of the way, the “Idol” producers will focus on securing the show’s judges for next season. More…