Ryan Seacrest Films First ‘Wheel of Fortune’ Episodes After Pat Sajak’s Retirement, Posts Video From Set: ‘I’m Still Spinning With Excitement’.
Ryan Seacrest has offered fans a glimpse into his first day hosting “Wheel of Fortune” following Pat Sajak’s retirement.
“I’m still spinning with excitement!” Seacrest wrote on Instagram, sharing a video of his initial steps onto the iconic set. “I’m so excited, my heart’s pounding,” he remarked in the video.
Seacrest humorously noted, “The wheel’s maybe smaller than you think — as am I,” before giving the wheel his first spin. He admitted to being too excited to sleep the night before, saying, “I slept okay, but still very excited for the alarm to go off.”
As he toured the studio, Seacrest highlighted a screen showing a nostalgic scene of Sajak and co-host Vanna White playfully smashing pies in each other’s faces. He also pointed out a display case featuring one of White’s old dresses, two Emmy trophies, and other show memorabilia.
In a promotional clip for Seacrest’s tenure on “Wheel of Fortune,” Sajak advised him, “I think what you’re going to enjoy most is meeting the players and getting to know the audience at home. People love this show. They see us every day, spend a half-hour with us, and watch with the whole family.” Sajak added, “You’re never going to find a better job, and you’re never going to find a better co-host,” referring to White.
Seacrest was announced as Sajak’s successor in June 2023. Sajak’s final “Wheel of Fortune” episode aired on June 7, drawing 11 million viewers. However, he will host “Celebrity Wheel of Fortune” for one last season, premiering on ABC this fall. In September 2023, White extended her contract with the show through the 2025-2026 season.
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