Hell’s Kitchen
Status: Renewed
Network: Fox
Est. Cost: $1 million per episode*
Gordon Ramsay, the chef pioneer behind the shows Hell’s Kitchen and others, has remained tight-lipped about his pay, however estimates suggest he currently earns up to $225,000 every episode of his show. The reality show has had 20 successful seasons since its debut on May 30, 2005. It follows competitive cooks as they compete for ownership of their own restaurant and, maybe more significantly, Gordon Ramsay’s esteem. Ariel Contreras was the most recent winner of the show. Ramsay’s own net worth has risen to an astonishing $190 million as a result of the Fox production. Given the series’ popularity, that figure is certain to rise as the seasons progress.
Hell’s Kitchen
American Idol
Status: Renewed
Network: ABC
Est. Cost: $2 million per episode*
Since the original judging panel of Randy Jackson, Paula Abdul, and, of course, the infamous Simon Cowell, American Idol has gone a long way. The show has nineteen seasons and has spawned talents such as Carrie Underwood and Kelly Clarkson. American Idol has been renewed for a twenty-first season, with ABC agreeing to host the show for the fifth time. Last season’s judges included Katy Perry, Lionel Richie, and Luke Bryan, all of whom are music superstars in their own way. The popularity of the singing competition has fluctuated, yet many victors have become millions.
American Idol
