Ryan Seacrest (via Instagram)That was quick. Two weeks ago, Pat Sajak announced he would be leaving his post on “Wheel of Fortune” after 41 seasons. And now comes the news that Ryan Seacrest will take over as the new host of the long-running game show.
From the New York Times:
The prompt selection of a star like Mr. Seacrest, made just two weeks after Mr. Sajak announced he would step down next year after more than four decades on the job, is a big bet on “Wheel of Fortune.” The show has demonstrated remarkable durability even as traditional television has declined in the wake of streaming entertainment.
The swift decision by executives at Sony Pictures Television, which produces the show, also suggests that they are hoping to avoid the succession fiasco that nearly overwhelmed their other hit game show, “Jeopardy!’
Vanna White, Mr. Sajak’s longtime “Wheel of Fortune” co-host, is under contract for another year, and is in negotiations to continue with the show, said one of the people, who spoke on condition of anonymity because the talks were confidential.
According to Nielsen numbers, “Wheel of Fortune” averages nearly 9 million viewers a night.
Breaking News: Ryan Seacrest will succeed Pat Sajak as the next host of “Wheel of Fortune,” according to people familiar with the plan. https://t.co/Q3h3RkzjoT pic.twitter.com/RexKaRld9O
— The New York Times (@nytimes) June 27, 2023