After much fanfare, Ryan Seacrest finally made his television debut as the new host of Wheel of Fortune.
The syndicated game show made its return Monday night for its 42nd season and for the first time in decades a new permanent host was announced.
“And now together for the first time, here are the stars of our show, Ryan Seacrest and Vanna White!”
In June 2023, Pat Sajak announced he would be stepping down as the longtime host of Wheel of Fortune. Shortly after his announcement, Seacrest was named host of the iconic game 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 media personality said at the time.
Leading up to his debut, many fans were skeptical about Seacrest’s abilities to host Wheel of Fortune despite his long history of hosting television series including American Idol.
Seacrest and White walked out to a warm welcome from the crowd after announcer Jim Thornton introduced the game show’s newest host and hostess.
“So happy to be here,” Seacrest said to White. “So happy to have you!” White replied before the two separated and went to their respective places on the set.
Prior to introducing the first round of contestants for the show’s 42nd season, Seacrest spoke directly to the audience and viewers at home.
“I am your host, Ryan Seacrest. I still can’t believe my luck of being here with you tonight to continue this legacy of this incredible show with all of you. And of course, my good friend Vanna White. Thank you for the very warm welcome.”
“Hosting Wheel of Fortune is a dream job. I’ve been a fan of this show since I was a kid watching it in Atlanta with my family. And I know how special it is that ‘Wheel’ has been in your living rooms for the pat 40 years. And I’m just so grateful to be invited in. I also know I’ve got some very big shoes to fill. So, let’s play Wheel of Fortune.”
Seacrest notably did not mention Sajak by name, and fans took notice.
Ryan Seacrest is off to a rocky start on Wheel of Fortune
Not a single mention of the ICON @PatSajak?!pic.twitter.com/ccwAhe94Ar
— Noel ☆ (@KingOfHotTopics) September 10, 2024
Despite the mishap, the general consensus was that Seacrest was a “natural.”
“Ryan Seacrest did a fabulous job on Wheel of Fortune! Excited for this new era,” someone wrote on X.
“First impression of Ryan Seacrest hosting @WheelofFortune (aside from a great new set and enhanced production) is that he’s doing it without notecards. That takes a ton of skill and confidence, and also shows a lot of personal character in learning the game, and the contestants,” another observed.