Seacrest is in as "Idol" producer pays $45 million for its host

Posted Jul 13th 2009 3:00PM by Beth Gaston Moon
Filed under: Deals, Television, News Corp'B' (NWS)

American Idol host Ryan Seacrest signs $45 million deal

Love him or hate him (I'm ... ahem ... in the first camp), you have to admit his career's been impressive. Ryan Seacrest has parlayed his American Idol hosting gig into a lucrative $45 million, three-year deal. CKX, parent of Idol producer 19 Entertainment, is making Seacrest the richest-ever reality host. Recession, out!

This could be taken as a sign that the juggernaut known as American Idol is far from slowing down. The "talent" showcase, which airs for dozens and dozens of hours each spring on News Corp.'s (NYSE: NWS) FOX, has seen ratings slip slightly during its eight seasons but remains the top-rated show on television, by a long shot. Committing to Seacrest for an additional three years means we'll have at least three more dramatic seasons, three more top twelves, and hopefully at least three more contestants with the talent of Adam Lambert, Jennifer Hudson, or Kelly Clarkson.

But back to Seacrest. The hardest working man in show business also moonlights as a DJ for L.A. radio station KIIS-FM, lead anchor for E! Entertainment news, and producer for shows such as Keeping Up with the Kardashians. Maybe he (senselessly) fears the approaching caboose of his gravy train and wants to earn while he can. Ryan, call me! I'll pay you to go to dinner with me and give me some tricks of the trade.

Beth works for The Options News Network (www.ONN.tv), which provides daily stock and options commentary. The above comments are not intended as trading advice.

Tags: 19 entertainment, 19Entertainment, american idol, AmericanIdol, fox, inthenews, news corp, NewsCorp, nws, ryan seacrest, RyanSeacrest