Ryan Seacrest To Take Over ‘Wheel of Fortune’ After Pat Sajak Retirement

"Wheel of Fortune" has found its new host in Ryan Seacrest, following the legendary game show host Pat Sajak's announcement of his retirement.

As Latin Post previously reported, Pat Sajak announced that he will be retiring after the next season ends. Sajak has been co-hosting the long-running game show with Vana White for over 40 years now, as he took over hosting duties from original host Chuck Woolery in 1981. "Wheel of Fortune" first aired back in 1975 and is still going strong today.

Seacrest confirmed the news on social media, saying, "I'm truly humbled to be stepping into the footsteps of the legendary Pat Sajak."

He added, "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."

According to Deadline, Ryan Seacrest would not just be hosting the classic game show but also serve as a consulting producer. Sajak will remain with the show as a consultant.

Seacrest heaped more praises for Pat Sajak, saying, "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."

Earlier this year, Ryan Seacrest exited his hosting duties on "Live! With Kelly and Ryan." However, he is best known for hosting "American Idol" and has been in that role since the show first debuted.

Vanna White Staying on 'Wheel of Fortune' After Pat Sajak Retires

Vanna White, who has been on Sajak's side for decades, turning the tiles on the board, is currently negotiating her contract for Season 41, which begins in September and is Sajak's final season on the show.

However, E! News reported that Ryan Seacrest had noted that Vanna is staying on the show. When news of Sajak's retirement broke, there had been speculations about her future in the show.

While he did not outright confirm that Vanna will return, he uttered, "I can't wait to continue the tradition of spinning the wheel and working alongside the great Vanna White."

There Was Some Drama Regarding Vanna White After Ryan Seacrest Hosting News

There were constant rumors that after Sajak leaves the show next season, Vanna White would also be leaving. She had been serving as the game show's letter-turner since 1982 and even took over hosting duties temporarily whenever Pat Sajak was absent.

According to the New York Post, White was only making around $3 million a year since 2005. She did not get a single raise since and has only been receiving bonuses. This is in sharp contrast to her co-host, who earned $15 million a year.

With her contract negotiations, White was reported to have lawyered up and hired powerhouse attorney Bryan Freedman, who is known for handling Hollywood disputes with TV networks. Reports say that she wants a big payday. Although still officially unconfirmed, Ryan Seacrest may have inadvertently announced that she will continue as the letter-turner.

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Rick Martin

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