How much American Idol contestants get paid to be on the show revealed (2024)

How much American Idol contestants get paid to be on the show revealed (1)
HITTING THE RIGHT NOTE

THROUGHOUT the years, many contestants have sung their hearts out, trying to impress judges and viewers on American Idol.

Yet, with a singing contest that has produced thousands of wannabe superstars, fans of the series have called their compensation into question.

2

Are American Idol contestants paid to be on the show?

American Idol first debuted on Fox on June 11, 2002.

Since then, there have been 16 seasons as the singing contest moved to ABC in 2018.

In the 20-year history of the singing contest, thousands of contestants have competed, with many even giving up their jobs to record episodes.

The show has a compensation structure in place for those who get to the latter stages.

Fox Business previously confirmed that contestants who make the top 12 – which has since expanded to 24 – receive paychecks according to the length of time they film.

A two-hour episode reaps roughly $1750, a one-hour show reaps approximately $1400, and a 30-minute show sees a payment of around $910.

Contestants reportedly receive $450 to spend on clothes while food is included.

However, to receive that pay, they must have enrolled in the AFTRA union, which is a $1,600 payment upfront.

Do contestants have to pay to audition for American Idol?

The good news for wannabe contestants is that auditioning for American Idol is completely free.

You only need to show up, fill out the necessary paperwork, and then wait for someone to call your name.

Contestants audition with producers before they decide if you’re good enough, or in some cases amusing enough, to perform in front of the celebrity judges.

According to Fox Business, however, the actual costs begin if they accept you as a contestant.

This is because you must follow the show from state to state for further rounds of auditions – incurring expensive travel and hotel costs.

Richard Rushfield, the author of American Idol: The Untold Story, said: “What the TV audience doesn’t see is, if you’re from San Diego and you audition and make it through in St. Louis, then you have to return to St. Louis a month or two later for the next round, and then again for the third round.

“Some can’t afford to and drop out.”

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How much do American Idol winners get in prize money?

The Blast reportedly obtained a contract signed by a 17-year-old contestant in 2019, revealing that the show's winner gets a payout of around $250,000.

When the show crowns a winner, that winner is signed to Hollywood Records, and that’s when they get their first $125,000.

They then receive a further $125,000 after producing their first album.

Winners can also participate in summer tours with the show, earning them a hefty payout.

Previously, victors such as Carrie Underwood and Kelly Clarkson reportedly made $13million and $11.7m, respectively.

How much American Idol contestants get paid to be on the show revealed (2024)

FAQs

How much American Idol contestants get paid to be on the show revealed? ›

American Idol contestants reportedly make $1,303 for 1 hour shows, $1,571 for 2 hour shows, plus the cost of meals during the shows. And yes, the American Idol contestants even make money during the half-hour results shows — $910 per each half-hour results episode to be exact. What about their outfits?

What does Lionel Richie get paid for American Idol? ›

Lionel Richie

The Grammy winner is earning a salary of around $10 million from American Idol, per multiple outlets.

How much does the cast of American Idol make? ›

Just Jared revealed in 2018 that Richie earns $10 million, while Seacrest and Bryan make $12 million each. Meanwhile, Perry, earns more than any other judge, making a whopping $25 million per season.

Does American Idol pay for contestants families? ›

ARE THE FINALIST'S FAMILIES COMPENSATED FOR BEING IN THE AUDIENCE? Even though American Idol loves to utilize the finalists' friends and family sitting in the audience, either by airing reactions or actually bringing them up on stage, they do not compensate them for their expenses.

What are the American Idol contracts? ›

  • I read in the NY Times all Idol contestants that reach the top 12 have to sign a contract that gives 19 Entertainment the rights to sign them to an album contract if they choose. ...
  • The winner of the show is guarnnteed a contract with a $500,000 advance and the runner-up is guaranteed a contract with a $300,000 advance.

How much does Katy Perry get for American Idol? ›

However, Katy's paycheck comes out to a whopping $25 million per season, more than both Lionel and Luke's combined, a history-making deal at the time when she was brought on as the "anchor" judge in 2017.

How much did Jennifer Lopez make on American Idol? ›

Lopez judged American Idol starting in Season 10 with a rumored salary of $12 million. She returned for Season 11 with a raise to $15 million. She was replaced with Nicki Minaj and Mariah Carey for Season 12, but returned for Seasons 13, 14 and 15 with a reported salary of $17.5 million each.

Who pays for American Idol clothes? ›

The show provides a weekly fashion budget of $450 for each contestant, and you can work with the show's stylist to figure out the best outfit for that week's performance.

Who is the richest American Idol contestant today? ›

Who Are the Most Successful 'American Idol' Contestants?
  1. Carrie Underwood. Net worth: $140 million.
  2. Kelly Clarkson. Net worth: $45 million. ...
  3. Adam Lambert. Net worth: $35 million. ...
  4. Jennifer Hudson. Net worth: $30 million. ...
  5. Katharine McPhee. Net worth: $14 million. ...
  6. Jordin Sparks. Net worth: $8 million. ...
  7. Chris Daughtry. ...
  8. Elliott Yamin. ...
Feb 17, 2023

Who is the most financially successful American Idol? ›

Underwood has dabbled in acting, but that has been little more than a footnote in her career so far. She is the first and only "American Idol" winner with a nine-figure fortune, accumulating an eye-watering net worth of $140 million (per Celebrity Net Worth).

Do American Idol contestants get to keep their outfits? ›

It's use it or lose it.” The good news is that both winners and losers get to keep their wardrobes; from shoes, accessories, to dresses, skirts, tops, pants and jackets.

Does American Idol pay for trip to Hawaii? ›

Who pays for the trips to Hawaii? As part of the show, every contestant that makes it into the top 40 has their expenses paid for as they travel to Hawaii to compete on the show.

Do American Idol contestants have to pay for travel? ›

Who pays for American Idol contestants to go to Hollywood? American Idol does cover travel and housing expenses for those who go to Hollywood, which is the Top 20. They receive a small budget for other expenses, as well as money for fashion so they can pick out outfits when they perform on stage.

What did Noah Thompson get for winning American Idol? ›

After winning over runner-up HunterGirl, Thompson received a $250,000 prize and a record deal with Hollywood Records. The singer currently shares singing videos on his TikTok and Instagram accounts.

How long is your contract with American Idol? ›

The initial contract extends for three years, although 19 continues to collect a percentage of some of the contestant's earnings for 10 years. The winner is not the only contestant who earns after the show. Last year the runner-up — Adam Lambert, whose first-week album sales were more than double those of Mr.

At what point do American Idol contestants get paid? ›

Richard revealed that American Idol contestants get a $450 stipend and time with a fashion consultant once they make the top 12.

How much did Coca Cola pay American Idol? ›

When Coca-Cola signed on as an initial sponsor for Fox's "American Idol" back in 2002 for $10 million, it was considered a huge coup.

How much did Mariah Carey get paid on American Idol? ›

For her single season acting as a judge on American Idol, Mariah was reportedly paid $18 million (via StyleCaster). That means she was getting paid around three times that of long-time judge Randy Jackson, who left after that season.

Who owns American Idol? ›

American Idol is an American singing competition television series created by Simon Fuller, produced by Fremantle North America and 19 Entertainment, and distributed by Fremantle North America.

How much does Kelly Clarkson make on American Idol? ›

American Idol

Kelly won the hearts of the nation whilst competing on the show in 2002, which left her not only with the coveted Oscars-style trophy but also a whopping $1million and a recording contract with star label with RCA records.

How much does it cost to tryout for American Idol? ›

It's free to audition for American Idol, but you have to cover your travel and accommodations. The show will not compensate or arrange travel for people auditioning, even callbacks. You can sing any song you want. Whether it's an original song or a greatest hit, it's your choice what you sing for the judges.

How much did Carrie Underwood get paid on American Idol? ›

All of this goes to say that Carrie Underwood likely earned around half a million dollars from her time with American Idol, more or less.

Who is the least successful American Idol winner? ›

5 'American Idol' winners with fewest record sales
  • Taylor Hicks (season five - 2006) Post-“American Idol” debut album sales: 705,000. ...
  • Kris Allen (season eight - 2009) Post-“American Idol” debut album sales: 346,000. ...
  • Lee DeWyze (season nine - 2010) ...
  • Candice Glover (season 12 - 2013) ...
  • Caleb Johnson (season 13 - 2014)
May 11, 2015

Why did Kaya Stewart quit American Idol? ›

Kaya Stewart left the competition after getting sick during Hollywood week in which contestants vie for the chance to appear on the live shows. The 22-year-old singer broke the news as she was supposed to duet with another contestant, Fire. “I have been trying to push myself and keep going,” Stewart told the judges.

Who is more successful Kelly or Carrie? ›

To date, Kelly Clarkson has won three GRAMMYs and has received 15 nominations. Season 4 winner Carrie Underwood has won eight GRAMMYs and has received a total of 16 nominations, making her the "Idol" contestant with the most GRAMMY wins and nominations.

How much does Ryan Seacrest made American Idol? ›

According to The Hollywood Reporter, Seacrest joined American Idol with a deal of $5M per season. Further, in 2009, Seacrest signed a $45M deal to continue hosting with a salary of $15M per season. Up until 2015, and the final season of the show, the 48-year-old received $15M each season.

Who is the most successful male singer to be on American Idol? ›

Ruben Studdard

Nicknamed Velvet Teddy Bear for his velvety voice and approachable appearance, Ruben Studdard shot to fame after winning American Idol season two. What is this? The song he sang during the third round of the contest, “Superstar,” gained him a Grammy nomination for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance.

How long do American Idol winners have to pay royalties? ›

The American Idol winner gets $125,000 when they sign the contract and the remaining $125,000 when they complete an album, which they have four months to do.

How much money is Fantasia worth? ›

According to Celebrity Net Worth, Barrino has an approximate net worth of $1 million. The majority of her fortune comes from her musical career and other endeavors in the entertainment industry. The singer skyrocketed to fame as the winner of American Idol in 2004 and earned $1 million in prize money.

Is American Idol real or scripted? ›

Like many reality shows, American Idol has faced rumors of being scripted for as long as it's been around. Without hearing it directly from American Idol producers, there's no telling exactly how much is scripted or staged versus the real deal. However, past contestants and even judges have spoken on the matter.

Does The Voice pay for housing? ›

Contestants who make it far into the season are given stipends to cover living expenses. They definitely don't go hungry either, as previous contestants have raved about the show's catering and additional food options like an on-set Starbucks.

What hotel do American Idol contestants stay? ›

American Idol is returning to the Aulani Disney Resort & Spa in Hawaii for season 21. Contestants will get to enjoy the resort as they train and perform for the ABC reality competition series. Here's what we know about Aulani and what's included in the 800/night stay.

How much do American Idol judges make? ›

How much do American Idol judges get paid? According to Celebrity Net Worth, Katy Perry is the highest paid judge on American Idol, receiving $25 million. Luke Bryan takes home $12 million for his role, whilst Lionel Ritchie earns $10 million.

What does the second place winner of American Idol get? ›

The runner-up will sometimes also be offered a record deal by the show's affiliate record label, though they usually receive an advance and deal only half of the size of the winner's.

What is the budget for American Idol? ›

The actual cost of the show was commensurate with a network drama, about $2 million an episode, say insiders.

Does AGT pay travel expenses for contestants? ›

We will need to see sufficient supporting evidence of such costs being incurred before we reimburse. If you live more than 300 miles away, AGT will provide you a plane ticket to Los Angeles. You will also be provided a hotel room the night before and the night of your audition.

Did HunterGirl get a record deal? ›

Her work with veterans as a music therapist has helped so many people. Her record deal is the result of her hard work and dedication. HunterGirl is sure to have a very successful career in country music.

How much did Noah Thompson make on Idol? ›

For winning Season 20 of the competition, Thompson will receive a $250,000 prize along with a record deal with Hollywood Records.

What did Willie Spence pass away from? ›

How much does Lionel Richie get paid for American Idol? ›

Lionel Richie

The Grammy winner is earning a salary of around $10 million from American Idol, per multiple outlets.

Does American Idol have paid actors? ›

Just as "Survivor" contestants leave their jobs (sometimes negotiating with their bosses to return after their seven or eight weeks away), "American Idol" contestants leave their lives behind. So do family members who travel to Los Angeles to support their loved one — on their own dime. Are contestants paid? Yes.

Does American Idol pay royalties? ›

Royalties only get paid to songwriters and the music publishing company, not performers or producers. THEY get paid when a singer on American Idol performs their song.

Who is the highest paid American Idol contestant? ›

Who Are the Most Successful 'American Idol' Contestants?
  1. Carrie Underwood. Net worth: $140 million.
  2. Kelly Clarkson. Net worth: $45 million. ...
  3. Adam Lambert. Net worth: $35 million. ...
  4. Jennifer Hudson. Net worth: $30 million. ...
  5. Katharine McPhee. Net worth: $14 million. ...
  6. Jordin Sparks. Net worth: $8 million. ...
  7. Chris Daughtry. ...
  8. Elliott Yamin. ...
Feb 17, 2023

Does American Idol winners have to pay royalties? ›

Once they reach the Top 12, “American Idol” singers each week record a version of their song for sale on iTunes. Once they begin recording, they receive a one-time payment of $1,000 and a $1,000 advance on royalties for each recording.

How much did Britney Spears make on American Idol? ›

Spears Asked For $20 Million

The show made an offer of $10 million and eventually, both sides were able to meet halfway, at $15 million. Given the salaries of other judges in the past, it was still an excessive salary.

Why is Lionel Richie doing American Idol from home? ›

Lionel Richie embraced working from home as American Idol's top 20 performed remotely due to the COVID-19 pandemic on Sunday's episode of the ABC show.

How much does American Idol pay Ryan Seacrest? ›

According to The Hollywood Reporter, Seacrest made $5 million per season for the seasons one through eight of American Idol. In 2009, he signed a $45 million deal to continue to host American Idol for seasons nine through eleven, which paid him $15 million each season.

Do American Idol contestants have to pay for anything? ›

It's free to audition for American Idol, but you have to cover your travel and accommodations. The show will not compensate or arrange travel for people auditioning, even callbacks.

How much did Kelly Clarkson win on American Idol? ›

How much does Kelly Clarkson make on her music? As the inaugural winner of American Idol, Clarkson nabbed a $1 million recording contract with RCA Records.

How much do Lionel Katy and Luke make on American Idol? ›

According to Celebrity Net Worth, Katy Perry is the highest paid judge on American Idol, receiving $25 million. Luke Bryan takes home $12 million for his role, whilst Lionel Ritchie earns $10 million.

How much did Randy Jackson make on American Idol? ›

For his first season as a judge for "American Idol," Jackson was paid a salary of $10 million.

Why is Lionel not in person on American Idol? ›

Judges Katy Perry and Lionel Richie will be absent because they are among the artists performing in the Coronation Concert for King Charles III on the same day on the grounds of Windsor Castle.

Why did American Idol end? ›

The show has become much too expensive to run: it requires a full-time auditorium, the salaries of three star judges, recording studio time, plus the audition tour. Fox reported before this year started that “American Idol” was no longer turning a profit.

Why isn t Lionel not on American Idol? ›

Why isn't Lionel Richie on 'American Idol' 2023 Sunday night? Richie is one of several artists performing at King Charles III's coronation concert Sunday night, Harper's Bazaar reported.

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