Seacrest Cashes in on "Idol" Fame

(CBS)  "American Idol" host Ryan Seacrest is cashing in on the reality show's popularity - to the tune of $45 million.

Seacrest's newly inked contract with CKX, the parent company of "Idol" producer 19 Entertainment, will keep him hosting the competition-based show for another three years, according to the Hollywood Reporter.

The deal, which is reportedly the richest ever for a reality host, will give Seacrest a raise three times his current $5 million annual salary. It will also give CKX exclusive primetime rights to Seacrest for "Idol" or any other show that succeeds it, the report states.

The exclusivity element of the deal applies only to broadcast TV and won't effect Seacrest's agreements with cable company Comcast or his role as E! Entertainment's lead anchor, according to the Hollywood Reporter.

Focus can now shift to contracts for the "Idol" judges. Lightning rod Simon Cowell is reportedly seeking a deal worth $100 million a year according to British media reports and has indicated he may simply walk away from the show after his contract expires at the end of next season.

The other judges - Randy Jackson, Paula Abdul and Kara DioGuardi - have all expressed hopes of returning next season.

None of the parties involved commented on the deal. A formal announcement is expected later Monday.

[carlyt1]

This compensation is absurd. Sign me up I want to work on American Idol. there is a related post at http://iamsoannoyed.com/?page_id=588

[erasmus111]

They need to get rid of Kara DioGuardi. She gives me head pain, just like Palin does.

[DaVicar5]

Ryan Seacrest is famous?

Says who?

[actornaught]

Larry King.

[erasmus111]

Says ME. He's a cutie.