As the 42nd season of “Wheel of Fortune” wraps up on June 6, 2025, it will also signify the conclusion of Ryan Seacrest’s inaugural season as host of the cherished game show. Seacrest, known for his long tenure on “American Idol,” took over hosting duties from the legendary Pat Sajak in September, navigating a challenging transition.
In a recent conversation with ABC7 in Los Angeles, Seacrest shared that he has felt a “tremendous amount of pressure” in stepping into such an iconic role and admitted that he still seeks to fully acclimate to the show’s rhythm after filming 195 episodes. He expressed gratitude that fans have remained loyal during this change.
Vanna White, who has co-hosted with Sajak for many years, commended the transition, describing Seacrest as a natural fit who “makes it look easy.” Despite this, Seacrest candidly noted that he still occasionally grapples with the new responsibilities, highlighting the significant legacy he is stepping into.
Reflecting on the audience’s reception, Seacrest remarked, “I’m thrilled that the loyal audience has accepted what we get to do together.” His debut resonated well with viewers, with reports from Variety indicating that the show was the most-watched entertainment series during September. By January, the Los Angeles Times dubbed him “ratings gold,” and although “Wheel of Fortune” slipped to second place behind “Jeopardy!” in March, its viewership continued to grow compared to its debut.
White expressed her enjoyment working with Seacrest, asserting that he brings joy both to the set and to the audience. Their camaraderie has allowed for spontaneous moments during the show, which Seacrest embraced as a source of genuine fun and laughter.
In past statements, White reiterated how well-prepared Seacrest was for the role and that he approached it with humility, recognizing that he was not seeking to replace Sajak but rather to step in as his own host. Both Seacrest and White are set to return for the next season of “Wheel of Fortune,” anticipated to begin filming this summer, while Seacrest is also expected to lead his 24th season of “American Idol” in early 2026.
This season has shown that while transitions can be daunting, the blend of experience and enthusiasm can create a rewarding atmosphere for both hosts and viewers alike.