Ryan Seacrest was a jack of all trades in the hosting world, but the news of his new gig left a sour taste in some fans’ mouths. The announcement followed his departure from “Live with Kelly and Ryan.”
Ryan Seacrest added another gem to his extensive resume as he gears up to spin the “Wheel of Fortune.” The news broke on June 27, 2023, when the host announced he’d take over for Pat Sajak, 76, when he retires in 2024.
The 48-year-old expressed, “I’m truly humbled to be stepping into the footsteps of the legendary Pat Sajak.” He inked a multi-year deal, donning dual hats as host and consulting producer.
But fans on social media weren’t all cheers. One discerning viewer tweeted, “That’s disappointing. He won’t stay long and he’ll turn into something I won’t watch anymore. They could’ve found someone better.”
Another lamented, “Ryan is too flashy, too show business. Wheel of Fortune is a family show that needs a host with a goofy grandpa-like demeanor.”
Yearning for fresh energy, a faithful fan remarked, “Why can’t they find…someone new? Does no one but me get tired of seeing the same dozen or so faces on every TV show?”
“Not that anything is wrong with Seacrest, but it would have been nice to have some fresh blood up there. Let us get to know him/her and grow with them through their journey. I’m already tired,” another commented.
Ryan is too flashy, too show business. Wheel of Fortune is a family show that needs a host with a goofy grandpa-like demeanor.
— Lizzard 🦎 (@lizzard011) June 27, 2023
Prior to this, Seacrest charmed morning audiences co-hosting “Live with Kelly and Ryan.” After a six-year stint, he bid goodbye to the show to focus on “American Idol.” Behind the scenes, sources divulged that Seacrest always seemed perpetually “exhausted” after filming.
Seacrest’s other gigs include KIIS-FM’s “On Air with Ryan Seacrest” and filling in Dick Clark’s shoes on ABC’s “New Year’s Rockin’ Eve.”