Ryan Seacrest’s ‘Wheel of Fortune’ predecessor Pat Sajak ‘looking forward’ to ‘handing over the car keys’

As Pat Sajak leaves ‘Wheel of Fortune,’ Ryan Seacrest will replace the game show host and will be joined by Vanna White

Pat Sajak is ready to move on after 41 seasons of “Wheel of Fortune.”

The game show host reacted to the naming of the next host on Twitter, writing, “I’m looking forward to my final season starting this fall, and then handing over the car keys to Ryan Seacrest in September of 2024.”

“Wheel of Fortune” announced Tuesday on Twitter that Ryan Seacrest would replace Sajak, saying, “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!”

“I’m truly humbled to be stepping into the footsteps of the legendary Pat Sajak,” Seacrest said in the statement obtained by Fox News Digital. “I can say, along with the rest of America, that it’s been a privilege and pure joy to watch Pat and Vanna (White) on our television screens for an unprecedented 40 years, making us smile every night and feel right at home with them.

“Pat, I love the way you’ve always celebrated the contestants and made viewers at home feel at ease. I look forward to learning everything I can from you during this transition.”

“Jeopardy!” host Mayim Bialik shared her “weird” reaction to Seacrest being named as the next host. She posted a screenshot of the article to her Instagram story, writing, “OMG I am so going to creep on Seacrest across from the Jeopardy! stage and offer to clean his dressing room – is that weird???”

In his statement, Seacrest noted the new hosting gig comes as a “full circle moment” and revealed Vanna White would continue on the show.

“Many people probably don’t know this but one of my first jobs was hosting a little game show called ‘Click’ for Merv Griffin 25 years ago so this is truly a full circle moment for me and I’m grateful to Sony for the opportunity,” he added. “I can’t wait to continue the tradition of spinning the wheel and working alongside the great Vanna White.”

The announcement regarding the next host of “Wheel of Fortune” comes two weeks after Sajak announced he would not return to the show for the 2024 season.

Before Seacrest became a household name, he found a mentor in broadcasting legend Dick Clark, who helped propel his career from standing on the sidelines to shining in the spotlight.

Seacrest not only hosts multiple shows across a variety of platforms, he also works behind the scenes as a producer on some of the biggest television shows. His estimated worth is around $450 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth.

It’s truly the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter for Wheel of Fortune, America’s beloved game show that has kept families entertained for more than four decades. As Pat Sajak, the legendary host who has stood behind the iconic puzzle board since 1981, steps down, fans and industry insiders alike are watching closely to see how his successor, Ryan Seacrest, will carry the torch — or, as Sajak himself jokingly puts it, the “car keys.”

In a recent candid interview, Sajak opened up about his decision to retire and the emotions that come with passing on a legacy so deeply woven into the fabric of American pop culture. At 77 years old, Sajak has become a TV institution, his calm demeanor and witty banter with co-host Vanna White turning millions of mundane evenings into moments of collective joy.

“I’m ready,” Sajak said with a chuckle when asked about leaving the show. “I’ve driven this car for more than 40 years. It’s still running smoothly, but it’s time for someone else to take it for a spin. I’m genuinely looking forward to handing over the keys.”

His metaphor resonated instantly with fans. To them, Wheel of Fortune is not just a game show — it’s a nightly ritual, a comforting piece of nostalgia, and Sajak has been its trusted driver, navigating countless contestants, puzzles, and even controversies with grace and humor.

A Carefully Chosen Successor

Choosing who would replace Sajak was no small task for Sony Pictures Television. After months of speculation, they announced Ryan Seacrest would take the wheel, an unsurprising yet bold choice that has sparked plenty of debate. Seacrest, known to many as the unstoppable host of American Idol, a radio mogul, and an all-around entertainment powerhouse, brings star power and polished hosting chops.

Some fans were initially skeptical, fearing that Seacrest’s celebrity aura might overshadow the show’s homespun charm. But Sajak has full confidence that his successor understands what makes Wheel of Fortune special.

“Ryan’s a pro,” Sajak said. “He knows how to connect with people, and he knows how to keep things moving without making it all about himself. That’s crucial for Wheel. It’s not about the host; it’s about the game, the contestants, and the joy of shouting at the TV with your family.”

How Ryan Seacrest is Preparing

Seacrest, meanwhile, has been equally vocal about respecting the legacy he’s inheriting. In several interviews, he’s emphasized that he has no plans to reinvent the wheel — pun intended.

“I grew up watching Wheel of Fortune,” Seacrest said. “It’s an American treasure, and my goal is to keep that warmth and familiarity alive while maybe adding a fresh energy for a new generation of fans.”

Insiders say Seacrest has already spent time behind the scenes with the production crew, learning the show’s rhythms, watching old tapes, and even consulting Sajak for advice. The handover isn’t abrupt; instead, it’s a carefully staged transition, designed to reassure loyal viewers that the show they love won’t lose its magic.

Vanna White Remains a Constant

Another source of comfort for longtime fans is the fact that Vanna White, Sajak’s beloved co-host, will remain on board. White and Sajak’s friendship has long been part of the show’s charm, and many were concerned she might retire alongside him.

Thankfully, White recently renewed her contract, promising continuity and familiarity even as Seacrest steps into his new role. Speaking about the upcoming change, she said, “Pat is irreplaceable as a friend and a host, but I know Ryan is going to do a fantastic job. He’s already shown so much respect for what this show means to people.”

Fans React to the Passing of the Torch

Fan reactions to this generational shift have been a mix of nostalgia, apprehension, and cautious optimism. Social media buzzed with tributes to Sajak’s decades of service, with clips of his funniest moments and heartfelt sign-offs making the rounds.

Meanwhile, memes poking fun at Seacrest’s omnipresence in entertainment also went viral — some joke that he’s slowly becoming the host of everything. Despite the playful jabs, the overall mood is supportive, with most viewers acknowledging that if anyone can pull this off, it’s Ryan Seacrest.

One fan tweeted, “Pat Sajak is like your TV dad. It’s weird to imagine someone else, but if it has to be someone, Ryan’s not a bad pick.”

The Road Ahead

For Sajak, retirement doesn’t mean disappearing completely. He’s hinted that he might pursue more writing and spend precious time with his family — and perhaps indulge in some well-deserved relaxation after decades of daily tapings and countless wheel spins.

“I’ll always be a part of Wheel in spirit,” he said. “And I’ll be cheering Ryan and Vanna on, just like everyone else.”

As for Wheel of Fortune, the show’s loyal fanbase and timeless format mean its future looks bright. New puzzles, new contestants, and yes, a new driver behind the wheel — but the same comforting promise: that for 30 minutes each evening, viewers can gather around the TV and yell out answers, laugh at the goofy moments, and feel a little spark of joy.