Ryan Seacrest ‘Really Excited’ to Host WHEEL OF FORTUNE
By Movieguide® Contributor
Ryan Seacrest is taking over the role of host for the iconic game show WHEEL OF FORTUNE, and he can’t wait to get started.
“With this game show, it’s such a success and has been for generations,” Seacrest, 48, told PEOPLE at the iHeartRadio Music Festival in Las Vegas on Friday. “You don’t mess with it, just don’t mess with it. Just get out of the way, say ‘Good evening’ and let’s play.”
“I think I have so much adrenaline rushing through my body,” he added. “Excitement is the word because it’s such a phenomenal show. I’ve been a fan. I grew up watching the show. And I can’t wait to take over after the legendary Pat Sajak.”
The show is in its 41st season, the last to feature Sajak as host.
“Well, the time has come. I’ve decided that our 41st season, which begins in September, will be my last. It’s been a wonderful ride, and I’ll have more to say in the coming months. Many thanks to you all,” he wrote on X.
Well, the time has come. I’ve decided that our 41st season, which begins in September, will be my last. It’s been a wonderful ride, and I’ll have more to say in the coming months. Many thanks to you all. (If nothing else, it’ll keep the clickbait sites busy!)
— Pat Sajak (@PatOnWheel) June 12, 2023
“I’m looking forward to my final season starting this fall, and then handing over the car keys to Ryan Seacrest in September of 2024,” Sajak added.
“I’m looking forward to my final season starting this fall, and then handing over the car keys to Ryan Seacrest in September of 2024.”
— Pat Sajak (@PatOnWheel) June 28, 2023
“There’s no one better than Pat Sajak,” Seacrest added. “He is so smooth and seamless. He’s beloved by the country. So I feel a lot of pressure. [But] I’m really excited. I can’t wait to just give away a bunch of money to people every night.”
The new host also expressed his excitement to work with co-host Vanna White.
“Vanna has been such a staple on that show and in our living rooms for so many years. I have been very excited to work with her, but now that it’s official, I can say, ‘Congratulations Vanna! I can’t wait,’” he expressed.
Movieguide® previously reported:
With Pat Sajak’s retirement from WHEEL OF FORTUNE, the show has big shoes to fill and should take note from other gameshows that have had to replace longtime hosts…
As the show pursues a replacement, they need to find someone who can win over contestants and hardcore fans. If they allow the public to weigh in on the decision, they need to show that they have considered the fans’ opinions.
While nothing has officially been announced, many people see Ryan Seacrest as an obvious frontrunner for the job. He recently left his position at LIVE! WITH KELLY AND RYAN, opening up his schedule for something like hosting ‘Wheel.’ Another front-running contender is Sajak’s current co-host Vanna White who has been flipping letters on the show since 1962. She took over his hosting duties in 2019 when Sajak took time off for surgery.
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Now more than ever we’re bombarded by darkness in media, movies, and TV. Movieguide® has fought back for almost 40 years, working within Hollywood to propel uplifting and positive content. We’re proud to say we’ve collaborated with some of the top industry players to influence and redeem entertainment for Jesus. Still, the most influential person in Hollywood is you. The viewer.
What you listen to, watch, and read has power. Movieguide® wants to give you the resources to empower the good and the beautiful. But we can’t do it alone. We need your support.
You can make a difference with as little as $7. It takes only a moment. If you can, consider supporting our ministry with a monthly gift. Thank you.
Movieguide® is a 501c3 and all donations are tax deductible.
