Ryan Seacrest has won the “Wheel of Fortune” hosting job, beating out several other big names all vying for the highly sought-after gig.
On Tuesday, it was announced that the “American Idol” host was chosen for the spot. Seacrest also confirmed the news on Twitter in a heartfelt statement, paying homage to the longtime host, Pat Sajak, who announced earlier this month that he was retiring in 2024.
“I can say, along with the rest of America, that it’s been a privilege and pure joy to watch Pat and Vanna on our television screens for an unprecedented 40 years, making us smile every night and feel right at home with them,” the 48-year-old wrote.
Wheel of Fortune pic.twitter.com/pQeTpWsPx7
— Ryan Seacrest (@RyanSeacrest) June 27, 2023
Seacrest will take over after the show’s 41st season concludes. In addition to being the on-air curator of the game, he will also serve as consulting producer. Sajak will not be leaving the show completely. He will still work part-time as a consultant for at least three years after retirement. There has also been much talk about whether or not co-host Vanna White will remain in her role as presenter. Seacrest confirmed that she would keep her job, much to fans’ relief.
“I can’t wait to continue the tradition of spinning the wheel and working alongside the great Vanna White,” Seacrest confirmed.
Other celebrities were hoping for the “Wheel of Fortune” job. This includes actress and “The View” host Whoopi Goldberg, Sajak’s daughter, Maggie, and Bravo’s Andy Cohen. White was also hoping to be considered as host, considering that she has been by Sajak’s side on the stage since he took over in 1981. Though all great candidates, Seacrest is highly qualified for the position, having hosted numerous shows and Hollywood red carpets. An adored figure in the industry, he hopes to resonate with lifelong fans of the show for years to come.
