Ryan Seacrest Gives Fans a Sneak Peek Of 'Wheel Of Fortune' Filming Debut
By Kelly Coffey-Behrens on July 17, 2024 at 11:45 AM EDT
New "Wheel of Fortune" host Ryan Seacrest is filled with excitement as he prepares to step into Pat Sajak's shoes.
As The Blast reported, Sajak, who has hosted the game show since 1983, announced his retirement in June 2023, shocking "Wheel of Fortune" fans.
The following month, the show revealed that "American Idol" host Ryan Seacrest would take over Pat Sajak's "Wheel of Fortune" hosting gig. Now, fans are getting a behind-the-scenes look at his exciting first day of filming.
Ryan Seacrest Is A 'Kid In A Candy Store'
Last year, after it was announced that Ryan Seacrest would become the new Pat Sajak, he spoke with People Magazine at the iHeartRadio Music Festival in Las Vegas to express his honor of taking on this new role.
“With this game show, it's such a success and has been for generations,” he told the outlet in September. “You don't mess with it, just don't mess with it. Just get out of the way, say ‘Good evening’ and let's play.”
“I think I have so much adrenaline rushing through my body. Excitement is the word because it's such a phenomenal show,” he continued. “I've been a fan. I grew up watching the show and I can't wait to take over after the legendary Pat Sajak.”
“I'm a kid in a candy store," the new host said.
Ryan Seacrest Gives Behind-The-Scenes Look At 'Wheel Of Fortune' Set
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On Tuesday, Ryan said he was "spinning with excitement" as he walked onto the ABC set to begin filming. “I could not sleep last night, I was so excited,” he said in the clip on his Instagram. “I slept okay, but still very excited for the alarm to go off.”
He walked over to the iconic wheel and told his fans, “The wheel’s maybe smaller than you think," before joking, “As am I.”
After running around the set, Seacrest skipped away from the lot, riding the wave of excitement for his new job.
"It’s like your first day of school, so excited!! We will miss Pat, but can’t wait to see your debut!" one fan pointed out in the comments section.
You’re going to do amazing!!! So excited for you. Can’t wait to watch," another said, adding a red heart emoji.
Fans Cannot Wait To See Ryan Take Over As Host
The comments kept rolling in from fans, all showing their support for the "American Idol" host!
"The sound we have heard for several generations in my house," one user wrote. "Excited that you were passed the torch on this legacy."
"We'll miss Pat Sajack, but look forward to seeing you- You'll be great as new host!" another said.
"You’re excited…no I’m excited! This is going to be epic…can’t wait to see you on screen again!" a third wrote.
It's clear that everyone is thrilled to see Ryan Seacrest take the helm of "Wheel of Fortune."
Vanna White Will Return To 'Wheel Of Fortune'
While Pat Sajak won’t be hosting the game show moving forward, Vanna White has confirmed that she will return after signing a new contract with the company.
“This is such great news,” Seacrest said after finding out that White would return. “Vanna has been such a staple on that show and in our living rooms for so many years. I have been very excited to work with her, but now that it's official, I can say, 'Congratulations Vanna! I can't wait.' ”
Pat Sajak Announces His Retirement From America's Game
Last year, "Wheel of Fortune" alum Pat Sajak announced he would be stepping away from America's game after an incredible four decades.
"Well, the time has come," Sajak shared in a statement last summer. "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. Thanks to you all!"
While Pat Sajak is retiring hosting the regular "Wheel of Fortune," he will return for one last time as host of ABC's "Celebrity Wheel of Fortune," which is set to premiere on October 7, according to The Hollywood Reporter. It's sure to be a memorable send-off!