After more than forty years in charge, Pat Sajak will be stepping down as the host of Wheel of Fortune on Friday (June 7). This means that fans will have to adjust to seeing Ryan Seacrest as the new host when the show returns in the fall.
Replacing a legendary host is always a challenge, as seen with shows like Jeopardy!‘s Alex Trebek and Price is Right‘s Bob Barker. However, many fans are looking forward to seeing what Seacrest will bring to the table and believe he will excel in the role.
One fan expressed their confidence in Seacrest, stating, “I know people are unsure about Ryan Seacrest hosting Wheel of Fortune, but I think he will be a great fit. Remember how unsure everyone was about Drew Carey on The Price is Right after Bob Barker left? Look how well that turned out!”
Others shared similar sentiments, with one user saying, “If The Price is Right could thrive with Drew Carey taking over from Bob Barker, then Wheel of Fortune will be just fine with Seacrest. I may not be a huge fan of his, but he is an experienced host with a track record of success.”
Another fan added, “I believe Ryan Seacrest will be a fantastic host! I can’t wait to see him in action. He is funny and charismatic.”
Seacrest, known for hosting American Idol since its debut in 2002, took over as the co-host of Live with Kelly and Ryan in 2017. Last June, it was confirmed that he would take on the role of hosting Wheel of Fortune after Sajak’s retirement.
Joining Seacrest will be long-time letter-turner Vanna White, at least initially. However, fans have speculated whether Sajak’s daughter, Maggie Sajak, will eventually take over White’s role. Maggie currently works as the show’s social media correspondent and has filled in for White in the past.
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Some fans believe that Maggie is being prepared to take over for Vanna White in the future, as one Reddit commenter suggested, “They are grooming [Maggie] to take over for Vanna after she eventually retires.”
Another commenter agreed, stating, “I’m sure she’ll be the one to take Vanna’s place when she retires.”
However, not all viewers are on board with this idea. One viewer described Maggie as “cringe” and expressed a desire for her to be removed once Pat Sajak leaves.
On the other hand, some fans defended Maggie, with one user sharing their positive experience with her during WWE Week last year. They praised her professionalism and work ethic, describing her as a refreshing addition to the show.
What are your thoughts on Ryan Seacrest taking over as host? Do you believe Maggie should succeed Vanna White? Share your opinions in the comments below.
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