With Pat Sajak stepping down as host of Wheel of Fortune after his long tenure, Vanna White is gearing up to work alongside her new co-host.
Last year, Ryan Seacrest was announced as Sajak’s successor following his retirement announcement, which marked the end of his 8,010th episode aired on June 6. Despite rumors suggesting a rocky start, Seacrest, 49, has expressed enthusiasm about teaming up with White, who has firmly stated her commitment to staying on the show despite Sajak’s departure.
The duo has already begun preparations for the upcoming season premiere in September. In a promotional Instagram video featuring both hosts and Pat Sajak, White assured Seacrest, “Ryan, I think the contestants are going to love you.” Seacrest reciprocated the sentiment, acknowledging both White and Sajak for making hosting the show look effortless. Sajak chimed in, praising Seacrest, “Well, you’re never going to find a better job, and you’re never going to find a better co-host.”
White, 67, has been a fixture on Wheel of Fortune since 1982. Reports surfaced during Sajak’s retirement that she had not received a salary increase in 18 years, with her decision to continue contingent on resolving this issue. Addressing this, she told TV Insider, “When I heard that Pat was retiring, I thought maybe I should retire, too. But I’m not ready!” Ultimately, she signed a new two-year contract.
Seacrest expressed his excitement during an appearance on the Today Show, stating, “This is such great news,” and congratulating White on her continued role. “Vanna has been such a staple on that show and in our living rooms for so many years. I’ve been very excited to work with her, but now that it’s official I can say, ‘Congratulations, Vanna.’ I can’t wait.”
In a September interview with Entertainment Tonight, Seacrest reiterated his anticipation, describing White as “beloved by this nation” and emphasizing her importance to the show. “I’m honored to be on stage with her soon,” he remarked. Reflecting on their initial communications, Seacrest praised White’s warmth and expressed surrealism about stepping onto the set alongside the legendary co-host. “I’m really excited,” he added, jokingly anticipating giving away money to contestants every night.
With endorsements from both Sajak and White, fans have also shown their support on social media. Comments on the show’s Instagram page reflect anticipation for Seacrest’s debut, with many expressing excitement over the upcoming changes while acknowledging Sajak’s legacy.
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