The new series of talent show American Idol has been sent into chaos as they fail to fill the judging panel just days before filming is due to begin. Producers lured Katy Perry to the panel with a reported salary of $25 million. However, according to reports they’re struggling to find other stars to sit along side her. Perhaps they have spent all the show’s budget on the I Kissed a Girl singer?
A source told the entertainment website TMZ ‘Thursday is the last stop for the show’s tour bus auditions, and it’s just weeks away from the planned taped auditions with the judges. Problem is producers are no closer to locking down stars to join Katy on the panel.’ They added that if filming has to be delayed then it will likely clash with Perry’s tour throwing filming into chaos.
It is rumored that the show has a cap of $40 million to spend on talent. With Perry and returning hosts Ryan Seacrest’s salaries totaling $35, it leaves little cash for the producers to spend on filling the rest of the judging seats. Country star Luke Bryan is reported to be one of those who has turned down a deal which involves a Disney partnership because of the remaining lack of funds.
Tensions surrounding Perry’s salary is likely to be causing friction around potential talent. During a recent interview the singer boasted about her pay packet. ‘I’m really proud that as a woman, I got paid. I got paid more than any man that’s been on that show.’