Ryan Seacrest signs new three-year deal to continue ‘American Idol’

Seacrest signs deal for ‘Idol’ and new projects

NEW YORK — Ryan Seacrest has signed a lucrative new deal that keeps him hosting “American Idol” through 2012 as well as participating in new projects.

The partnership, announced Monday by 19 Entertainment, a wholly owned subsidiary of CKX Inc., provides an opportunity for on-air-personality/producer Seacrest and his Ryan Seacrest Productions banner to work with “American Idol” creator Simon Fuller on new entertainment endeavors.

Fuller’s 19 Entertainment has created and produced TV hits including “American Idol” and “So You Think You Can Dance.”

Although the announcement specified no dollar figure, The Hollywood Reporter pegged the deal at $45 million.

Besides “American Idol,” Seacrest, 34, is host of the radio countdown show “American Top 40,” as well as a nationally syndicated radio show for Clear Channel’s 102.7 KIIS-FM. He also executive produces and co-hosts “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve With Ryan Seacrest” and holds the titles of managing editor and lead anchor of E! Entertainment News.

“American Idol” airs on Fox.

Fox is a unit of News Corp.

On the Net:

www.19entertainment.com/

www.ryanseacrest.com/

www.americanidol.com/