Judges Simon Cowell, Randy Jackson, Paula Abdul and host Ryan Seacrest (L-R) on the "American Idol" television show are pictured in this publicity photo released by Fox television. "Idol" returned for its sixth season in a special two-night, four-hour season premiere Tuesday, January16, 2007. EDITORIAL USE ONLY (UPI Photo/Fox/HO) |
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NEW YORK, Jan. 14 (UPI) -- CKX says it has struck a deal with Simon Fuller that will allow the "American Idol" creator and producer to start a new entertainment company.
CKX said its pact with Fuller, founder and chief executive officer of 19 Entertainment, ensures Fuller will continue to produce and provide overall global executive direction to CKX's hit television shows "American Idol" and "So You Think You Can Dance," as well as the new online-led property "If I Can Dream," in return for a share of profits.
The 49-year-old Briton also will provide general consulting services to CKX, which also may invest in Fuller's new venture.
Robert F.X. Sillerman, chairman and chief executive officer of CKX, called Fuller "truly one of the most creative geniuses in the entertainment industry today."
"This new arrangement guarantees that Simon and CKX will be working together for many, many years to come," Sillerman said in a statement. "I'm also delighted that going forward Simon will be free to focus his creative energy on developing new ideas and projects and that CKX has the opportunity to invest in his new business."
Fuller called it "the beginning of another important chapter in my life."
"As an entrepreneur I feel I am about to enter my prime years and starting a new entertainment company at this moment fills me with great excitement," he said.
