Ryan Seacrest will partner with Fox for two more years on their hit reality show “American Idol.”
Fox made the announcement on Monday that they had penned a deal with Seacrest to keep him as host of the popular music talent show, which is currently in its 11th season.
Variety reports that Seacrest signed the deal, which is worth $15 million per year, and is essentially the same as the one he signed before the show first aired on June 11, 2001.
He has reportedly also signed a deal with NBC, where he hosts “E! News Daily.” A previous announcement stated that Seacrest will be involved with Olympics coverage in London this summer.
In today’s press release about the deal, Ryan Seacrest commented that hosting “American Idol” is his “dream job.” He also stated:
“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.”
Fox programming chief Kevin Reilly commented at the network’s TCA presentation authority that:
“I think everyone has come to realize the value of Ryan Seacrest. We certainly want to keep him.”
Cecile Frot-Coutaz, the newly promoted CEO of FremantleMedia North America is looking forward to Seacrest’s continued position. She said:
“I am thrilled that Ryan will continue to be the face of ‘American Idol.’ He is one of the best in the business and we are lucky to have him.”
Mike Darnell, the president of alternative entertainment for Fox was also glad to keep the show host, in what many are saying is an acknowledgement on the part of both parties.
For Seacrest, it acknowledges that “American Idol” brought him his big break into hosting. For Fox, they are acknowledging that Ryan Seacrest is the face of “American Idol.” Darnell said in a statement that:
“He is an integral part of why ‘American Idol’ is a true phenomenon, and we can’t imagine doing this show without him. His ability to engage the viewers, keep the contestants at ease during intense moments and adapt to any situation, especially during the live shows, solidifies him as the absolute best in the business.”
Check out more information about Ryan Seacrest’s return to “American Idol” here:
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