Ryan Seacrest Feels Pressure to Take Over From Remarkable Pat Sajak on 'Wheel of Fortune'

Ryan Seacrest acknowledges pressure to replace Pat Sajak as host of "Wheel of Fortune" following his retirement. Seacrest praised Sajak's enduring impact on the show during an interview with People magazine. "No one can match what Pat has achieved. He is awe-inspiring," commented Seacrest, who will assume the role in September. "He has made that show truly special for a long time, impressively doing a job that no one can match. He also mentioned feeling the pressure to fill Sajak's shoes."

"People love watching him. I want them to continue loving it, and I hope to do a great job too," he said. Sajak's last season on "Wheel of Fortune" will be his farewell, as he announced on social media. After retiring, he will continue as a consultant for three years, as confirmed by Suzanne Prete, EVP of game shows at Sony Pictures Television. Sajak's last episode airs on June 7, confirmed by multiple outlets. 

Vanna White will continue on "Wheel of Fortune" until the 2025-26 season, dismissing exaggerated contract negotiation reports from last year. Seacrest humbly stepped into the legendary's footsteps, expressing his lifelong love for "Wheel of Fortune". "I've been watching it, as both an adult and a child," Seacrest said, emphasizing its significance to many. It's a part of their lives, they enjoy solving puzzles together. For me, it's an opportunity to give away prizes and work with Vanna White."