Idol Chatter & Voice Views

Here’s my question:  If Ryan Seacrest is worth $15 million a year to host Idol, how much should Carson Daly be paid to host The Voice?

I mean, Monday night, Carson had to stand in front of the camera and, with a straight face, say “that was amazing” after watching Cee Lo Green jump around the stage in a gold facsimile gladiator suit with three similarly costumed buddies for about 4 minutes.

But back to Ryan.

If you haven’t heard, he’ll be back on Idol in Season 12.  And for Season 13.

And most of the reports I’ve read indicate he’ll be earning about $15 million per season.

That’s a heck of a lot of money to be paid to host America’s most popular TV show.

Then again, lots of folks figure Ryan is a key to its popularity.

Besides, it takes a lot of talent to get Elise Testone to cry about a dying dog.

And lots of gumption to ask three celebrity judges to pick the best and worst at the end of a two-hour performance show.

And then fail to follow up when they dodge the question.

Joking aside, Ryan’s new contract is good news for Idol watchers.

He’s clearly got a good rapport with judges and contestants, and he’s truly been part of the show’s success for 11 seasons.

Now we know we’ll be able to enjoy — and sometimes gripe about — two more.

If you’re interested and haven’t seen the official release from FOX, here it is …

The FOX release

Emmy® Award-nominated Ryan Seacrest will continue as host of AMERICAN IDOL, broadcast television’s No. 1 show. Seacrest has served as host of AMERICAN IDOL since its debut on June 11, 2002. Over the past decade, he has guided the IDOL contestants and judges through each season’s incredible journey, from the first tickets to Hollywood to every star-studded finale. Seacrest has introduced every guest performer, played referee with the judges and was the first to announce and congratulate each of the winners. 

“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,” Seacrest said. “The legions of fans, amazingly talented contestants, judges, and producers, along with the hard working IDOL crew, impress me every time we go on air and make hosting the show a dream job. I especially appreciate the support and confidence of Peter Rice, Mike Darnell and the entire FOX team – as well as the support of everyone at FremantleMedia North America – and I look forward to continuing our partnership.”

“Ryan is one of a kind,” added Mike Darnell, President of Alternative Entertainment, Fox Broadcasting Company. “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. He is an integral part of why AMERICAN IDOL is a true phenomenon, and we can’t imagine doing this show without him.”

“I am thrilled that Ryan will continue to be the face of AMERICAN IDOL. He runs the show with such expertise, warmth and charm that he makes one of the hardest jobs in television look easy,” noted Cecile Frot-Coutaz, CEO, FremantleMedia North America. “He is one of the best in the business and we are lucky to have him.”

 “Ryan has been with AMERICAN IDOL from the very first day. I can’t imagine the show without him,” stated creator and executive producer Simon Fuller. “He is the consummate host and an exemplary professional. Having Ryan continue to be a part of the AMERICAN IDOL family is great news for everyone.”