Ryan Seacrest Talks Getting Physical on ‘Wheel of Fortune’: “The Men Throw Me Around”

The game show host also talks filling the shoes of predecessor Pat Sajak after 41 seasons.

Ryan seacrest knew he had some big shoes to fill, taking over as host of the iconic Wheel of Fortune following Pat Sajak’s retirement after 41 seasons.

Here, Seacrest talks about his preparation and why he thinks the show has persevered.

Since your tenure began last fall, Wheel has consistently ranked No. 1 across most U.S. markets while reaching 22 million viewers a week. How does it feel knowing that fans are happy with your work?

I have a lot fun with the job, but I take the responsibility very seriously. We all have memories of watching Wheel with our families. I mowed lawns growing up in Atlanta just to save money to buy a Zenith TV for the kitchen so we could watch Wheel during dinner!

Why do you think Wheel has had such an enduring appeal for 50 years?

Because it’s simple and it’s never changed. It’s a safe place for fun, and I think that’s special.

Your career has seen you become the heir apparent to Casey Kasem, Dick Clark and, now, Pat Sajak. One might feel trepidation about replacing such iconic personalities. Why did you say yes to this opportunity? 

There were conversations — actually, years ago — about me doing this show, and I expressed interest even back then. When you look at what Pat and Vanna [White, co-host] have built over the years … they are your friends. What they’ve established is special. So that’s why I said yes.

What was your approach to prepping?

It required a lot more prep than you’d think. I made flashcards for myself and, when I could, logged in remotely to watch tape-days. About six months out, my producer built a little travel-friendly wheel for me so I could play in hotel conference rooms with random people. (Laughs.)

Which part of the show do you enjoy the most? 

I love interviewing the contestants. It can get physical, too! Maybe it’s my size, but the men throw me around. I think, “Oh my God, it’s coming.” (Laughs.) I bruise easily, you should know.

Ryan Seacrest, the new host of “Wheel of Fortune,” recently opened up about the surprisingly physical side of his role on the iconic game show. According to Seacrest, it’s not just about spinning the wheel or reading clues — sometimes, it involves a lot more action than one might expect.

“I love talking to the contestants — they bring such great energy,” he said. “But sometimes, the big guys get a little too excited and forget how small I am. They just throw me around like a rag doll!” he laughed. “I bruise easily, just so you know.”

One of the most unforgettable moments happened when a contestant, a former professional wrestler, suddenly put Seacrest in a playful headlock on stage. Although it was all in good fun, Seacrest had to tap out like a real fighter to escape — much to the audience’s amusement. He and the contestant later laughed it off with a handshake and a smile.

In another hilarious episode, Ryan was literally knocked off his feet when a contestant, overwhelmed with excitement after winning a big prize, grabbed him in a huge celebratory hug. The force of the hug sent Seacrest tumbling to the ground in front of a cheering crowd. Unfazed, he popped back up and joked, “I’m good! I survived!”

Since stepping into the role after Pat Sajak’s retirement, Seacrest has brought a fresh energy and playful spontaneity to the long-running show. He’s not afraid to get a little silly or even physically involved if it means making the show more entertaining for viewers. Whether he’s taking a tumble or getting caught in a wrestler’s grip, he’s proven to be a good sport with a sense of humor.

Longtime co-host Vanna White admitted she was initially nervous about working with a new host. However, over time, she and Seacrest have developed a strong on-screen chemistry and a genuine off-screen friendship, which has helped ease the transition for the show’s loyal fans.

Seacrest says these over-the-top moments are part of what makes “Wheel of Fortune” so beloved. “If getting tackled or tossed around makes the audience laugh and feel more connected, I’m all for it,” he said. “As long as people are enjoying the show, I’m happy to take the hits.”

From unexpected headlocks to spontaneous hugs that turn into wipeouts, Ryan Seacrest is proving that he’s not just a polished TV host — he’s also willing to roll (and tumble) with whatever comes his way to keep the show exciting.