Tucker Carlson’s rising clout at Fox News Channel has prompted an expensive bidding war among book publishers.
Former cable news kingpin Bill O’Reilly’s departure from Fox after a 20-year run has allowed “Tucker Carlson Tonight” a chance to flourish in the coveted 8 p.m. time slot. A source within the publishing industry told The Hollywood Reporter on Wednesday that Mr. Carlson’s ratings and witty personality may net him a deal worth anywhere from $12 million to $15 million dollars.
The entertainment website noted that Mr. Carlson’s star power is primed to eclipse former Fox host Megyn Kelly, who received a high seven-figure advance for “Settle For More.”
“Carlson’s proposed book is said to be current events-oriented, provocative and funny,” THR reported. “While the deal would technically be for one or two books, publishers see a potential franchise in Carlson and view the deal as the start of a long-term relationship, not a one-off project.”
The good news for Mr. Carlson comes just days after a ratings success for his debut in Mr. O’Reilly’s former time slot. The new host averaged 636,000 viewers between the ages of 25 to 54, which matched his predecessor’s track record with the demographic.
“[Mr. O’Reilly] set a high bar, and I’m going to do my best to meet it. Thanks for sticking with us,” the host said Monday night.
• Douglas Ernst can be reached at dernst@washingtontimes.com.
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