Why do TV Host personalities make so much money?

An experienced reporter with a bachelor's degree in journalism is typically hired to host a television news show. The BLS reports an average income of $54,140 for broadcast news analysts. Again, star factor plays a role in salary, as does size of the network or television station. Longtime reporter Anderson Cooper brings in $11 million annually hosting the show that bears his name. NBC's Matt Lauer reels in $17 million per year hosting "The Today Show."