Insiders say that Katy Perry is getting $25 MILLION to be a judge on the rebooted "American Idol."
Allegedly, ABC was desperate to sign a name before the Upfronts last week, when execs announced she was the lead judge.
As one source put it, "Katy had all the leverage. If ABC ended up announcing the show without a judge, they'd be screwed."
ABC initially tried to get Kelly Clarkson, but she signed with NBC's "The Voice." NBC also snagged Jennifer Hudson.
ABC is rumored to be "on the verge" of signing a deal with Ryan Seacrest to host the show again.
Sources connected with the first run of 'Idol' say he was making $15 million a season at his high point.
Source: TMZ