Ryan Seacrest Inc.: Soured on WME, 'Idol' host jumps to CAA (THR, DHD)

By R. Kinsey Lowe

Photo by WENN

Just when you thought you'd experienced more than enough information about Ryan Seacrest, he's orchestrated another round of headlines -- this time he's dumped his reps at William Morris Endeavor and switched to Creative Artists Agency, according to the Hollywood Reporter and Deadline Hollywood Daily.

This latest bit came Wednesday, days after he orchestrated a big raise for hosting "American Idol" -- without the participation of his now former agency because he didn't want them to receive any commissions arising from that new deal, which was worth $45 million over three years.

To Seacrest's demands concerning no future commissions either on "American Idol" or his radio deal with Clear Channel, WME said absolutely no way, so he walked. Seacrest was with William Morris Agency for 10 years.

Seacrest didn't use an agent on his new deal. He was repped by attorney Craig Jacobson and Adam Sher, a former WMA agent who once co-represented him with John Ferriter. Sher recently quit WMA to join Ryan Seacrest Prods.

Meanwhile, DHD noted that rivals of WME are badmouthing Seacrest for not wanting to pay any more residuals. Well, duh. That's how they make their money, whether you think they are overpaid or not.

Prior to informing WME on Tuesday night of his departure, Seacrest met with CAA reps, including Kevin Huvane, Alan Berger, Jeff Jacobs and Brian Weinstein.

CAA already represents "Idol" as a production package and thus wouldn't be able to get a commission for Seacrest anyway. CAA also represents Simon Cowell, handled mainly by Berger.

"Idol" contract focus now shifts to Cowell, who has made noises about leaving the show after next season -- unless he gets more than $100 million a year.

Subordinate judges Randy Jackson, Paula Abdul and Kara DioGuardi of course all hope to return.

Now that Seacrest has jumped ship, CAA has "Idol" creator Simon Fuller, Cowell and Seacrest.

With Seacrest on board, CAA will have the three main talent pieces on "Idol": creator Simon Fuller, Cowell and Seacrest, according to the Reporter.

Seacrest also has separate cable deals with Comcast and E! Entertainment. E!'s lead anchor, he also produces "Keeping Up with the Kardashians" and ABC's upcoming Jamie Oliver reality series. He's also a DJ on L.A.'s KISS-FM, New York City's Z100 and hosts the syndicated radio show "American Top 40."