<p>.</p><p>The "American Idol" host has closed a major new three-year deal with CKX, parent of "Idol" producer 19 Entertainment, worth $15 million per year.</p><p>Under the pact, which is believed to be the richest ever for a reality host, Seacrest will be exclusive to CKX in broadcast TV primetime to host "Idol" or any CKX-produced show that might succeed it.</p><p>The pact, which had been in the works for the past several weeks, more than triples his previous salary of slightly less than $5 million per season.</p><p>"Idol" producers 19, FremantleMedia North America and Fox all declined to comment on Seacrest’s new deal, as did his attorneys. The pact is expected to be announced Monday.</p>
