Ryan Seacrest Named New Host Of WHEEL OF FORTUNE
By Movieguide® Contributor
Ryan Seacrest has been named as the next host of WHEEL OF FORTUNE following longtime host Pat Sajak’s retirement.
“I’m truly humbled to be stepping into the footsteps of the legendary Pat Sajak,” Seacrest said in a statement about his new gig. “I can’t wait to continue the tradition of spinning the wheel and working alongside the great Vanna White.”
Seacrest’s hiring as the game show’s new host comes just a few weeks after Sajak’s announcement that he would be retiring.
In a statement, Sajak told fans, “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.”
Sajak will stay on as a consultant at WHEEL OF FORTUNE for three years following his retirement from hosting duties. He has been the host of the game show since 1983.
“As the host of WHEEL OF FORTUNE, Pat has entertained millions of viewers across America for 40 amazing years,” said Suzanne Prete, executive vice president of game shows at Sony Pictures Television, which produces the show. “We are incredibly grateful and proud to have had Pat as our host for all these years and we look forward to celebrating his outstanding career throughout the upcoming season…we’re thrilled to have him remaining close to the WHEEL OF FORTUNE family.”
Movieguide® previously reported on reactions to Sajak’s retirement announcement:
After Pat Sajak announced his retirement from WHEEL OF FORTUNE, many of his friends congratulated him on his legendary career.
“40 seasons is quite a run, Pat Sajak! We’ll be cheering you on from next door in your 41st and final season of host @wheeloffortune,” JEOPARDY! shared on Instagram.
“There has never been a game show host like Pat Sajak and I doubt there ever will be again,” Jeopardy’s executive producer, Michael Davies, said in the comments. “So comfortable on camera, that laid back style, never forces it, you never feel him following a format of driving the game.”
“His wit is rapier sharp and prolific… He is both celebrated and underestimated. For 40 years he has made something so hard look so effortless,” Davies continued.
