Ryan Seacrest may be a seasoned veteran in the entertainment industry, but he’s feeling the pressure as he prepares to take over from Pat Sajak as host of “Wheel of Fortune.”
Sources in the US, including Radar Online, report that Seacrest is employing unique methods to calm his anxieties about the new role.
Fans know that 77-year-old Sajak is stepping down after over four decades at the helm of the popular show.
Seacrest, 49, has been chosen as his successor, a monumental task given Sajak’s iconic status.
Despite Seacrest’s long and distinguished career, insiders insist he’s not immune to the pressure and expectations of such a high-profile position.
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A source close to Seacrest told Radar Online, “Ryan tends to bite off more than he can chew. He’s a bundle of nerves right now, but he wanted to be the next Dick Clark, and that’s what he’s become. He’s only human, though — and filling Pat Sajak’s huge shoes on ‘Wheel of Fortune’ is a challenge of epic proportions.”
Even with his extensive TV experience, Seacrest is taking various steps to manage his nerves. Post-Sajak episodes of “Wheel of Fortune” are set to begin airing this September. “He’s doing everything possible to cope with the inevitable nerves ahead of his hosting gig, including getting at least eight hours of sleep a night and listening to audio books for anxiety because Ryan never knows how to clock off on his own,” the source explained. “He has many other tricks up his sleeve he’s found to be highly beneficial. Just going outside for a breath of fresh air and sunshine helps him to chill when he’s feeling anxious, and you can bet he’ll have a cozy, air-conditioned trailer at the studio where he can retreat to unwind.”
Seacrest recently posted a heartfelt tribute to Sajak, praising the legendary host’s partnership with Vanna White, 67, and acknowledging Sajak’s influence on hosts everywhere. “Pat, congratulations on an incredible run with ‘Wheel of Fortune’! Your dedication, charm, and wit have made the show a beloved part of American television for decades,” Seacrest wrote on Instagram. “Your partnership with Vanna has been nothing short of iconic, and together, you’ve created countless wonderful memories for viewers. You’ve set the standard for hosts everywhere.”