A year after American Idol ended, the reality singing competition is returning with a new panel of judges, including Katy Perry. And let’s just say her reported salary is worthy of the money-mouth face emoji because this girl is going to be cashing some checks.
In an interview on the 103.5 KTU radio show, Katy was asked how much money she’ll be making on the show. After deflecting a bit, the singer admitted she’s proud of the hefty amount she’s being paid. “I’m really proud that, as a woman, I got paid. And you know why? I got paid like more than like pretty much any guy that’s been on that show,” Perry said. “And, by the way, I love men. So I’m a paid woman and I’m ready for a beautiful man.”
E! reports that Katy will be raking in $25 million on the show. This amount is quite an increase from what past female judges were making: Mariah Carey earned $18 million, and Jennifer Lopez made $17.5 million.
Women have historically been paid more than men for judging AI, though. Randy Jackson received $5.5 million per season while Keith Urban was paid $5 million. How about them apples?
Money aside, the show’s mission is to discover new talent, and that’s what is most valuable to Katy. “This show is about finding real talent, making peoples’ dreams come true and additionally hearing their stories,” Perry said. “I want to see you. I want to hear you. I want to witness you.”