Rock icon Jon Bon Jovi reportedly in talks to replace Katy Perry on 'American Idol', demands $25M salary
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: 'American Idol' is looking to shake things up with a major star replacement. Rock icon Jon Bon Jovi is reportedly the top contender to take over Katy Perry's judging duties after season 22 concludes, according to RadarOnline.com.
"Jon is the undisputed top contender to succeed Katy," an insider revealed to the National Enquirer.
Jon Bon Jovi eyes $25 million payday to replace Katy Perry on 'American Idol'
"A living legend with undeniable charisma, he possesses all the qualities necessary to command the stage and captivate TV audiences," the insider added.
However, Bon Jovi's entry comes with a hefty price tag. The 'Livin' on a Prayer' singer is reportedly demanding a staggering $25 million salary, presenting a significant challenge for the show's producers.
While sources claim Jon Bon Jovi isn't officially in talks yet, insiders say that securing a rock legend of his caliber requires a substantial investment. "The crux of the matter is money. To secure a true rock icon of his caliber, one must invest accordingly!" an 'Idol' insider shared.
If the producers meet his demands, Bon Jovi's salary would eclipse the combined earnings of current judges Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan, who reportedly make $10 million and $12 million, respectively.
His salary would match what Katy Perry was earning, who was the highest-paid female star in reality TV.
Katy Perry's decision to leave 'American Idol' stems from a salary dispute. Despite enjoying a lucrative $25 million deal, ABC was unwilling to increase her pay after five years of steady raises. The network's parent company, Disney, is focused on cost-effective spending for the next few years.
"Katy enjoyed the best deal for reality in TV," a source told The Mirror. "But ABC do not want to up it after five years of increases. There is no wiggle room as the parent company Disney looks to be cost-effective and keep spending down."
Perry, who was eager to focus more on her music and family, saw this as an opportunity to balance her professional and personal life better. "She has learned how to balance work and personal time," the insider noted. "Katy is a really hands-on mom, who likes to be there for breakfast and bedtime for Daisy. Being away from TV recordings increases that time."
'American Idol' eyes Jon Bon Jovi, $25M salary request stirs online debate
'American Idol' is considering a major shake-up by eyeing rock legend Jon Bon Jovi to replace Katy Perry as a judge. However, the rocker's reported $25 million salary request has ignited a debate among fans online.
One user commented, "They need a female judge and mentor to replace Katy, otherwise it will be three male judges." Another echoed the sentiment, stating, "I sure hope he isn’t the replacement. They have to pick a woman; too many men on the panel wouldn’t be fair."
Many fans are advocating for a female replacement to maintain gender balance on the judging panel. "Please no, he's ok but not for Katy's spot. They need a little girl power up there," one user wrote.
Others suggested that a former 'American Idol' winner should take the spot. "No. We need an American Idol Winner (either Kelly, Carrie, Fantasia, or Jordin) to replace Katy. We need to SEE one of their own on that judging panel! PERIODT!" said another fan emphatically.
One user simply stated, "He’s worth more than."
This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.
