A new era of “Wheel of Fortune” is officially under way.
Last month, long-time host Pat Sajak retired after 41 years at the helm of the iconic game show with TV personality Ryan Seacrest taking over Sajak’s duties.
On Tuesday, Seacrest gave viewers an exclusive first look of his first day filming “Wheel of Fortune”, revealing both his nervous excitement and a sense of reverence for the show’s legacy.
“A glimpse of my first day at @wheeloffortune, and I’m still spinning with excitement!” Secreast wrote.
In the behind-the-scenes video, Seacrest is seen stepping onto the iconic game show set, visibly thrilled. “My heart’s pounding, I’m so excited,” he said. Throughout the clip, Seacrest expresses his awe and anticipation, joking about the size of the wheel compared to his own stature and spinning it for the first time. “I could not sleep last night, I was so excited,” he admitted.
The video also gives fans a nostalgic glimpse into the show’s history, with Seacrest pointing out memorabilia such as an old scene of Sajak and co-host Vanna White engaging in a pie-throwing moment, and a display case featuring one of White’s dresses and two Emmy trophies. He concluded the video with “To be continued,” hinting at potential additional behind-the-scenes footage for fans.
Go behind the scenes with Seacrest:
Ryan Seacrest Shares First Day Of 'Wheel Of Fortune' Filming: "My Heart's Pounding I'm So Excited" https://t.co/Qfr1zXaiEb
— Deadline Hollywood (@DEADLINE) July 16, 2024
In his final episode, Sajak shared a special message to the millions who have tuned in to “Wheel of Fortune.”
“I’ve always felt that the privilege came with a responsibility to keep this daily half hour a safe place for family fun. No social issues, no politics, nothing embarrassing, I hope. Just a game. But gradually it became more than that: a place where kids learn their letters, where people from other countries hone their English skills, where families came together along with friends and neighbors and entire generations,” he said. “What an honor to have played even a small part in all that. Thank you for allowing me into your lives.”