Forbes reveals that Cowell is the highest paid man in TV, pulling in $75 million in a year. The controversial "Idol" judge beat out "The Apprentice" host Donald Trump who made $50 million, while Cowell's coworker Ryan Seacrest was No. 3 on the list, grossing $38 million, based on a pre-tax estimate from June 1, 2008-June 1, 2009.
So how did these men make their millions? In addition to Cowell's "Idol" duties, he has his own record label, which has signed breakout stars Leona Lewis and Susan Boyle. Meanwhile, Trump lends his name and face to a number of products and receives checks for his speeches and books. When he's not hosting "Idol," Seacrest is known for his numerous jobs that include: radio talk show host, celebrity TV host and executive producer of the hit reality show "Keeping Up with the Kardashians."
Coming in at No. 4 on the list was "Two and a Half Men" star Charlie Sheen who makes $20 million, and at No. 5 was funnyman Steve Carell, pulling in $20 million.
Other primetime men to make the Forbes.com top 10 list include "Deal or No Deal" host Howie Mandel ($15 million), "24" star Kiefer Sutherland ($13 million) and "CSI" actor David Caruso ($9 million).
Chace Crawford
Jesse McCartney
Derek Hough
Bring back Kevin Bacon!
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deejay75