Celebrity News April 24, 2012
Ryan Seacrest's $30M 'Idol' Payday! Plus, Host Salary War: Who Makes What?
TV personality Ryan Seacrest has signed a deal to continue as host of the FOX's hit show, "American Idol," for a whopping $15 million a year, the network announced Monday.
Seacrest said in a statement, "For the last 11 seasons, I've had the privilege to be a part of one of television's most iconic shows. It's been a wild ride, and I'm excited for my journey with 'American Idol' to continue."
While the show has faced multiple changes in its judging panel, Seacrest has remained at the core of the show, hosting since its launch in 2002.
"Idol" is only one of Seacrest's ventures. He is currently producing Kardashian-related shows, hosting for E! News and 102.7's morning radio show, and is finishing up a deal with NBC to cover the Summer Olympics.
Where does Ryan's $15 million a year stack up against his fellow TV show hosts?
NBC's "Today" morning show host Matt Lauer recently re-signed his contract for about $30 million a year, according to TMZ.
TV Guide reported that Simon Cowell brings in $75 million per season for "X Factor." Chef Gordon Ramsay is paid $225,000 per episode of Hell's Kitchen, and "Survivor" host Jeff Probst makes $200,000 per episode.
"AI" judges, singer Jennifer Lopez makes $12 million a year and musician Steven Tyler makes $18 million, according to Rock the List. Long-time judge Randy Jackson's salary is unconfirmed.
"The Voice" is close to re-signing deals with judges Cee-Lo Green, Blake Shelton, Adam Levine and Christina Aguilera, reports Deadline. Aguilera has reportedly agreed to a $10 million deal for the season, while insiders say the three men will double their salaries to about $6 million each.
