American Idol ‘in good shape’ for Jennifer Lopez return
After what seems like six months of negotiations and press leaks sources at Fox are saying a deal is now close to bring Jennifer Lopez back to American Idol. But the price has gone up – She now wants $21-million.
J-Lo’s first contract expired in May and the two sides have been in talks ever since. At the same time J-Lo’s been telling the press she was ‘on the fence’ about a return, which it now seems was just a ploy for more cash. But the deal seems like it’s done;
“We’re in good shape,” Cécile Frot-Coutaz, CEO of ‘Fremantle America,’ which produces ‘Idol,” tells reporters. “No dark clouds on the horizon.”
Lopez’ reps have declined any comment, saying there’s ‘nothing to announce,’ and Fox has also not made any statement so far. But insiders suggest the whole ‘will she or won’t she return’ drama was a ploy for more money;
Jennifer and fellow ‘Idol’ freshman, Steven Tyler joined the show when Simon quit to make ‘X-Factor.’ The difference in her judging style after Simon’s caustic remarks has helped ratings, but perhaps not enough. And she’s still reportedly planning her own show – ‘¡Q’viva!’ with soon-to-be-ex, Marc Anthony.
She was paid $12-million for her last season on Idol – and it should have been – but people close to the show say Lopez was upset by this and wanted a paycheck closer to what Simon Cowell was paid. He got a total of $35-million a year in salary and fees, and now she’ll get the same.
So there it is – Jennifer’s back, Simon’s moved out and the show must go on. But the cost – Oy! Who here thinks she’s worth it?…
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American Idol ‘in good shape’ for Jennifer Lopez return