Could Ryan Seacrest Be the Next Host of ‘Wheel of Fortune’?

Ryan Seacrest and Pat Sajak Shutterstock; ABC

According to recent reports, Ryan Seacrest is being considered as a potential replacement for Pat Sajak on Wheel of Fortune. Bloomberg has stated that Seacrest is currently in talks for the position, and while some sources claim he is the top contender, others suggest he is merely one of many interested parties.

After over four decades as host of Wheel of Fortune, 76-year-old Sajak has announced that he will be leaving the NBC series. In a statement to Bloomberg News on Monday, the Chicago native confirmed that the upcoming 41st season, beginning in September, will be his last. Sajak expressed gratitude for the opportunity and promised to share more about his decision in the future. This news follows his previous comments to Entertainment Tonight in September 2022, where he hinted at an impending departure, stating, "We're getting near the end...The end is near."

Seacrest has become a well-known face in the entertainment industry, having made a name for himself on popular shows like American Idol and Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve. His debut on Wheel of Fortune in 1981 marked the beginning of his successful career as a TV personality, and he has since become the longest-running host on the show.

In February, Seacrest shared with viewers on an episode of Live with Kelly and Ryan that he planned to depart from the show after six years. He expressed that the decision was difficult and had been discussed with co-host Kelly Ripa for quite some time. Seacrest revealed that he made the choice to end his run as co-host during the previous year, making his final season on Live with Kelly and Ryan bittersweet.

"I feel like I’m watching a family member filling in,” Seacrest told People. “He’s just so comfortable. He’s been on the show forever. He’s just got a great energy that’s infectious.” Seacrest also praised Ripa for her ability to make anyone feel welcome on set. “She’s the ultimate pro. She makes everybody feel at home,” he said. “That’s a talent that’s hard to teach.”

Seacrest expressed his admiration for Kelly and Mark and their success, sharing his hope to reunite with them in person soon. He mentioned his fondness for Kelly and how much he misses her, emphasizing the value of being able to spend time together without the need for air travel.