A changing of the guard is about to get underway at Wheel of Fortune.
The show will have a new host for the first time in more than 40 years.
And Ryan Seacrest made a surprising confession about replacing Pat Sajak on Wheel of Fortune.
Counting down the days until Sajak’s final show
Pat Sajak is the longest-tenured gameshow host in television history after joining Wheel of Fortune in 1981.
He’s taped his final episode behind the wheel, which is scheduled to air on June 7 and will also serve as the finale for Season 41.
American Idol host Ryan Seacrest was quickly announced as his replacement after the beloved host announced his retirement last year.
Co-host Vanna White will remain in her iconic role as the show’s letter-turner through at least 2026.
In September, Seacrest will begin his run as the host of Wheel for the show’s 42nd season.
And he’s got a big pair of shoes to fill by taking over for one of the most beloved and successful game show hosts in television history.
Seacrest talks about taking over Wheel of Fortune
Seacrest talked about taking the reins on Wheel of Fortune in an exclusive interview with People before The Hulu on Disney+ Celebration.
“Well, no one can ever do what Pat has done. He is incredible,” Seacrest said. “He has made that show just something so very special for so long, and he has done such a seamless, remarkable job, so no one can be him.”
“So do I feel pressure? Sure,” he continued. “People love watching him. I want them to keep loving watching it, and I hope to do a great job as well.”
Seacrest admitted he has some butterflies in his stomach about taking over hosting duties but noted that he’s been watching the long-running game show since he was a kid.
“I’ve been watching the show all my life, and I’ve been watching it as much as I can as an adult and as a child,” Seacrest explained. “I think that this is a show that means so much to a lot of people. It’s a part of their lives, they like to get together at the end of the day and try and solve the puzzles. And for me, it’s a chance to give away cash and prizes and work with the legendary Vanna White.”
Seacrest has hosted plenty of television and radio shows throughout his career.
But next fall, he’ll face his biggest challenge yet as Pat Sajak’s replacement on Wheel of Fortune.
