Is Ryan Seacrest returning to host a 3rd season of American Idol on ABC? Oddly, his name was omitted from this morning’s press release which announced the return of Lionel Richie, Katy Perry and Luke Bryan to the judges panel. ABC also announced that Bobby Bones will once again serve as in house mentor. Entertainment Tonight reports that Ryan’s return as host has yet to be confirmed.
When ABC announced American Idol’s renewal for season 3 last spring, reports said that Ryan was “believed to be under a long-term deal.” With all the speculation about the return of the judges panel, it was assumed that Ryan would return as host.
But taking a quick look at Ryan’s twitter feed–he hasn’t mentioned American Idol at all. And Idol hasn’t mentioned him on their social media either.
My theory is that he is still negotiating for a better deal. If he had decided not to return, ABC would have announced his departure and probably promoted Bobby Bones to host. Instead, they announce Bobby is returning as mentor, with no word about Ryan.
If Ryan wants a raise, ABC should give it to him! And maybe a producer’s credit as well. He’s the glue that holds American Idol together–the bridge between the FOX and ABC’s version of the show. Ryan as been with the series since day one. It would be a shame to lose him.
Meanwhile, in this morning’s press release, Karey Burke, president, ABC Entertainment said: “We couldn’t be more excited for Katy, Luke, Lionel and Bobby to continue in their roles as American Idol searches for the next great music star, with more live episodes and exciting, new creative elements coming this season.”
While American Idol executive producer Trish Kihane said: “We are delighted to have our judges Katy, Luke and Lionel as well as in-house mentor Bobby back on American Idol. They are all credible, hugely successful artists and will bring their expertise, passion and energy to the search for America’s next superstar. They have an undeniable chemistry together making for another fun and exciting season!”
No mention of Ryan Seacrest.
UPDATE: All this American Idol news is coming out because it’s Disney day at the Television Critics Association Panel in Los Angeles. When asked about Ryan’s return, Burke said that the network is stil lin negotiations with Ryan and that she’s “hopeful” he’ll return.
On Ryan Seacrest's absence from the American Idol announcement, ABC Entertainment president Karey Burke said they're in negotiations, and said she's "hopeful" he'll return. #TCA19
— Andy Dehnart (@realityblurred) August 5, 2019
