FNC’s Growingly Expensive Lineup

Just in the last three weeks, Fox News Channel re-signed Bill O’Reilly and Sean Hannity, arguably its two biggest stars, to expensive new contracts. They also added a new big name, Headline News’ Glenn Beck.

The New York Times’ Bill Carter looks at how they’re going to pay for everything.

FNC is still the number one cable news networks, which helps. “There will still be support for all three cable news networks,” said John Rash, director of media analysis for Campbell Mithun ad agency.

The network’s high subscriber fees help as well. “They’re awash with money,” said Andrew Tyndall of the Tyndall Report.

Another contract issue popped up on The Huffington Post today, regarding apparent contract negotiation issues with Fox & Friends anchor Brian Kilmeade. HuffPost’s Danny Shea writes, “According to sources, Kilmeade attempted to play hardball in his latest contract renewal negotiations and overplayed his hand with a series of ridiculous demands…Within hours, Kilmeade and Berger returned with their tails between their legs and their hat in their hands, and Kilmeade signed on to another contract with only a nominal raise.”

Michael Mand of CAA, where Kilmeade is represented, tells TVNewser: “Brian’s deal was closed nearly 18 months ago, with no complications and a very positive result. Now in his 12th year, he couldn’t be happier working for Fox News.”

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