Could Ryan Seacrest go from interviewing pop star Katy Perry on American Idol to just announced GOP presidential candidate Rick Perry on the Today show in the very near future? If some execs at Comcast, which owns NBC, have their way it could happen.
According to Colby Hall at Mediate.com "rumors have persisted" that longtime Today show co-anchor Matt lauer will leave his duties after his current contract ends in 2012 and "Mediate has learned that the top choice of certain key Comcast and NBC execs is American Idol host Ryan Seacrest."
Colby went on to report:
"Seacrest has become a household name hosting American Idol, his radio show and co-hosting E! News on the E! network, which is owned by Comcast. With GMA shrinking The Today Show’s lead in the past few months, the internal discussions have been intensifying, Mediaite has learned. Key NBC insiders now believe that only someone with Seacrest’s name recognition and appeal to women could allow for a smooth transition, and ensure that the incredibly profitable Today Show remains on top in the morning. When reached, an NBC spokesperson had no comment."
