‘Wheel of Fortune’ Fans Have Mixed Reactions to Ryan Seacrest’s Host Announcement: “One of the Most Passed Around Hosts”

It’s official, Ryan Seacrest is set to replace Pat Sajak as host of Wheel of Fortune. Of course, game show fans are some of the most passionate out there, and not everyone is pleased with Sajak’s successor.

The announcement dropped Tuesday (June 27) afternoon after weeks of rumors about Sajak’s replacement. Seacrest appeared to be the frontrunner in this race, but some were also rooting for longtime co-host Vanna White, LeVar Burton, and even Sajak’s daughter, Maggie Sajak, who works as a social media correspondent on the show.

“I’m truly humbled to be stepping into the footsteps of the legendary Pat Sajak,” Seacrest said in a statement shared on social media. “I can’t wait to continue the tradition of spinning the wheel and working alongside the great Vanna White.”

When the official Wheel of Fortune Twitter account shared the news, fans of the game show jumped at the chance to give their two cents on the new host.

“He’s a fantastic choice, big shoes to fill but Ryan’s the guy for the gig, will combine well with Vanna too,” a fan replied.

“Very good choice. I am going to miss Pat so much. But, I am glad, they picked someone now instead of having a run -off like Jeopardy did. Welcome Ryan, he will do fine,” another fan tweeted.

Hmmm…🤔🤔🤔. My gut reaction isn't "Oh God, no no no" so that is a good thing. I think Ryan has a good chance of maintaining the style & tradition that Pat set for Wheel. So congrats Ryan!!!

— DareW (@darewecan) June 27, 2023

Some were quick to point out that this new opportunity just adds one more gig to Seacrest’s growing roster of hosting jobs. Though he left Live with Kelly and Ryan earlier this year, he is still hosting American Idol, his syndicated KIIS-FM radio show On Air with Ryan Seacrest, and ABC’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve.

“This did not come as a surprise to me and I feel like Ryan is one of the most passed around hosts who has ever existed. Ryan, do you currently hold the world record for most hosted mainstream events?” one user asked.

While Seacrest’s salary hasn’t been publicly disclosed, Radar suspects he’ll be getting $28 million to host Wheel of Fortune.

White makes $3 million per episode while Sajak currently makes almost five times that amount, as first reported by Matt Belloni in Puck News. White has reportedly lawyered up in light of this transition and is in the process of negotiating her first raise in 18 years.

This eye-watering number also comes as no surprise considering Seacrest was reportedly paid $10 million to host Live, and $1 million to host and executive produce New Year’s Rockin’ Eve. Some reports also claim he was paid $15 million a season for American Idol.

Sajak will stay on to consult on the show for the next three seasons after the end of Season 41. White will also be staying on as co-host.

Wheel of Fortune airs on weeknights at 7:30/6:30c. Find local listings on the Wheel of Fortune website.