Ryan Seacrest has been named the new host of “Wheel of Fortune.” Two weeks ago, the show’s longtime host, Pat Sajak, announced he was going to step down next year. However, he will continue to work with the show as a consultant.
For more than 40 years, Pat Sajak has been the host of Sony Pictures Television’s syndicated show. After his announcement to retire celebrities like Whoopi Goldberg shared they’d like to take Sajak’s place. Sony’s quick decision to name Seacrest shows they didn’t want to have a repeat of the almost fiasco that happened with its other show “Jeopardy.”
Unfair Pay
Co-host of “Wheel of Fortune,” Vanna White, still has a year left on her current contract. However, sources say she is in the process of negotiating terms to continue. Recently, White hired an “aggressive new lawyer” to help her get the pay she deserves.
Currently, the “Wheel of Fortune” co-host makes $3 million a year. However, Sajak makes five times more than that. Both White and Sajak have been the face of the game show for many years.
Some people try to say that it makes sense for Sajak to make more than White. However, multiple sources have stated that White does more publicity for the “Wheel of Fortune,” in addition to spending more time on set.
Seacrest Officially Announced
On the show’s Twitter page, they posted: “It’s official! Starting in 2024 @RyanSeacrest will take the stage as the new host of Wheel of Fortune. We’re so excited – Welcome Ryan!”
News of Seacrest taking the helm as host of the show has caused mixed feelings online. Some are excited that he will be doing it. However, many feel: “It should be Vanna White! Make Ryan flip the tiles!” Additionally, there are some who are not appreciative of him being a “Wheel of Fortune” host at all.
It’s official! Starting in 2024 @RyanSeacrest will take the stage as the new host of Wheel of Fortune. We're so excited – Welcome Ryan! pic.twitter.com/TG5666m2Xc
— Wheel of Fortune (@WheelofFortune) June 27, 2023
By Sheena Robertson
Sources:
The New York Times: Ryan Seacrest Named New Host of ‘Wheel of Fortune’
MSN News: Vanna White hires ‘aggressive new lawyer’ after nearly 20 years on ‘Wheel of Fortune’ without a pay raise
Top and Featured Image Courtesy of Jorge Quinteros‘ Flickr Page – Creative Commons License
Inset Image Courtesy of B’s Flickr Page – Creative Commons License
