Despite a less than successful attempt in the past, seasoned TV host Ryan Seacrest is rumored to be on the brink of re-entering the talk show realm, setting sights on outperforming his previous American Idol co-stars, Kelly Clarkson and Jennifer Hudson, in their respective talk shows.

The 48-year-old host recently concluded his six-year tenure co-hosting "Live with Kelly and Ryan," turning his attention towards plans of leading his own talk program, according to sources close to the matter.

"A trusted source said, "Ryan believes he played a significant part in shaping Kelly and Jennifer's careers, aiding them in securing their own talk shows. He holds them in high regard, but now, he's ready to compete."

Interestingly, Seacrest was a recent guest on Clarkson’s show, which insiders interpret as a subtle challenge to Kelly Ripa, his former co-host, as he scopes out the competition.

His previous solo venture, "On Air with Ryan Seacrest," which debuted in 2004, was pulled off the air after only eight months due to poor viewership.

The friend explains, "Ryan was considerably younger and less experienced at hosting his own talk show back then. Despite the setbacks faced while co-hosting with Ripa on 'Live', he gained invaluable insights and believes he can turn things around with this new endeavor."

Seacrest reportedly sees the talk show scene's lack of male hosts, especially in the wake of Dr. Phil McGraw's TV retirement. He is keen to make his mark in a space currently dominated by female hosts like Clarkson, Hudson, Drew Barrymore, Sherri Shepherd, and Tamron Hall.

Insiders also hint that Seacrest eyes the opportunity to outperform the new iteration of "Live," featuring Ripa and her spouse, Mark Consuelos, which critics have largely disapproved.

"Ryan is highly confident of his chances of success," reveals the source. "With an unparalleled network of contacts in the entertainment industry, he's confident about drawing marquee guests away from rivals Kelly, Jennifer, and even Kelly Ripa."

Borrowing from Groucho Marx's humor, one might say that if Ryan Seacrest finds it hard to laugh at himself, his competitors would certainly be ready to do it for him.