Ryan Seacrest made TV history when, in 2002, he became a host of something called “American Idol” on Fox.
Now that the series is returning, on ABC, who’s the host?
Ryan Seacrest.
He’s probably making a little more as well.
“Seacrest’s multiyear deal is worth north of $10 million, PEOPLE confirms. He hosted the original Idol for 15 seasons from 2002 to 2016 when it aired on Fox,” said People magazine.
In a statement, the 42-year-old Seacrest said: “It’s genuinely hard to put into words what American Idol means to me. I’m so grateful for the show and all the career and life opportunities it’s allowed me to experience. It’s been an incredible journey from day one. To be asked to return this year, at my new home at Disney|ABC, is an honor, if not a bit surreal.
“I believe ABC is the perfect home for Idol, and I’ve every confidence the show’s legions of fans will love it – especially Idol’s best traditions of showcasing heartwarming stories, remarkable talent discovery, and, best of all, making dreams come true.”
Auditions begin Aug. 17.
People added: “Just before the announcement of the show’s return, Seacrest signed on to host Live with Kelly & Ryan alongside Kelly Ripa on May 1. An insider previously told PEOPLE the talk show was ‘his priority,’ but Seacrest also has big commitments to iHeartRadio and the syndicated radio show.”
Early reaction:
HE’S BAAA-AACK!!! Congrats Ryan! We’re so excited ❤️ @AmericanIdol #SeacrestIN pic.twitter.com/yW5gLWvEg3
— On Air/Ryan Seacrest (@OnAirWithRyan) July 20, 2017
OJ will become a judge on the revamp of American Idol and, later, marry Ryan Seacrest #OJSimpsonParole
— Follow the Money (@iKurt307) July 20, 2017
The most over employed person in Hollywood is returning to ‘American Idol’ https://t.co/qdgnk9gO53 pic.twitter.com/l6OEbj9JSU
— CNN (@CNN) July 20, 2017
Why cancel American idol only to bring it back that’s really stupid make up your minds people
— Nate Thomas (@Nthomas1986) July 20, 2017
Ryan Seacrest will host ABC’s resurrected American Idol, his 37th job this year. Forget Mexico, we gotta get our jobs back from Seacrest!
— Aaron Wiener (@Wieneraaron) July 20, 2017