As Pat Sajak Returns For Final Celebrity Wheel Of Fortune Season, Vanna White Recalled How Ryan Seacrest Made Her ‘Feel Good’ About The Host Swap

Approximately eleven months ago, renowned game show host Pat Sajak, known for his exceptional service on Wheel of Fortune spanning four decades, bid an emotional adieu. Now, we’re eagerly anticipating his return, although it will be temporary. The fifth season of Celebrity Wheel of Fortune, scheduled for 2025 television lineup, was taped prior to Sajak’s retirement. As we gear up to witness him reunite with Vanna White once more, the iconic letter-turner reminisced about the thoughtful gesture made by new host Ryan Seacrest that eased her concerns about the transition.

It was a difficult time for everyone who were devoted “Wheel Watchers” as Pat Sajak stepped down from hosting “Wheel of Fortune.” Yet, consider how Vanna White felt, having to work with someone new after so many years. White openly admitted that adjusting to someone else would be challenging, but she found Ryan Seacrest made the transition remarkably smooth. She shared this sentiment in an interview with TV Insider.

Ryan diligently completed his assignments. He practiced repeatedly. Additionally, he told me, “I’m not filling Pat Sajak’s shoes as no one could; I’m merely taking over.” This statement made me feel comforted because, as he put it, he’s not aiming to prove anything; he’s simply stepping into the role.

I appreciate the fact that Ryan Seacrest demonstrated empathy and respect towards Vanna White during his transition into Wheel of Fortune. He showed both through his actions and words that he recognized the significance of filling Pat Sajak’s shoes, understanding the importance of preserving the show’s strong foundation for its dedicated fans, rather than attempting to disrupt it.

In simpler terms, he assured fans that his adaptation of Wheel of Fortune would be similar to the one Pat Sajak was departing from. Since Sony selected Pat Sajak’s successor well ahead of time, and the chosen individual had extensive hosting experience, it set up both the crew and audience for a seamless transition. When Ryan Seacrest first appeared in 2024, fans surprisingly warmed up to him quickly. However, he does have his critics as well.

It’s exciting to look forward to Pat Sajak returning to his original position on Celebrity Wheel of Fortune. Fans can effortlessly contrast the hosting styles of the two, as Ryan Seacrest remains the lead host for the daytime syndicated version, while Sajak takes the stage in primetime every Wednesday on ABC.

Many viewers might experience a wave of nostalgia when the previous host meets Vanna White again, as they may have thought she was married to him (though Pat Sajak remains a familiar face outside of the show). It’s not just me who had that idea, Kelly Ripa! I believe this season will be memorable and treasured by fans, despite its eventual return to Ryan Seacrest’s regular broadcast.

Don’t forget to catch Pat Sajak’s grand comeback (and final grand finale) in Celebrity Wheel of Fortune Season 5, airing at 8 p.m. ET on Wednesday, April 30th on ABC and streaming the day after on Hulu.

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2025-04-30 04:07