American Idol has been a popular show for over two decades, attracting numerous talented hopefuls from across the United States.
The show has produced stars like Kelly Clarkson, and has now transitioned to being aired on ABC.
Despite its popularity, questions have been raised about the compensation structure for contestants.
According to Fox Business, contestants who make it to the top 12 (now expanded to 24) receive payments according to the length of time they film. A two-hour episode reaps roughly $1500, a one-hour show sees a payout of approximately $1300, and a 30-minute show nets contestants around $910.
In addition to paychecks, contestants receive $450 for clothes and are provided with food. However, in order to receive these payments, contestants must have enrolled in the AFTRA union, which requires an upfront payment of $1,600.
The costs for contestants also extend to the audition process. The good news for potential contestants is that auditioning for American Idol is free.
However, if they make it as contestants, they are required to travel to various locations for auditions and filming, incurring travel and hotel expenses. This has been a factor leading some contestants to drop out due to financial constraints.
As for winners, they receive a payout of around $250,000 and are signed to Hollywood Records.
The winner gets an initial $125,000 and then another $125,000 after producing their first album.
Winners also have the opportunity to participate in lucrative summer tours, with previous victors like Carrie Underwood and Kelly Clarkson earning millions from these opportunities.
