Ryan Seacrest’s new Wheel of Fortune role is off to a rough start, as a recent promotional clip didn’t land well with fans.
The teaser, shared on Instagram, shows Seacrest standing beside his co-host, Vanna White, on the iconic game show’s set.
Enthusiastically, Ryan declared, “I can’t wait to get to work,” while Vanna, holding a megaphone, cheered, “Let’s get you ready for fall.”
The scene then shifts to both hosts leaning over the wheel, now adorned with a pile of bricks. Ryan, after giving the wheel a spin, commented to Vanna, “You weren’t kidding, this is great for the biceps.”
Vanna, smiling, lifted two bricks in bicep curls as Ryan made a funny face towards the camera.
The caption accompanying the video humorously noted, “Ryan’s building his Wheel-spinning muscles – one brick at a time.”
Why Fans Are Angry At Seacrest’s Hosting
Despite the video’s playful tone, fans expressed their dissatisfaction with Ryan replacing Pat Sajak, who retired at the age of 77 after his final episode on June 7.
One critic harshly stated, “What a poor choice!” Another discontented viewer lamented, “I can’t believe I can never watch Wheel of Fortune again….” A third mocked Ryan, saying, “Seacrest is so bland.” Another simply declared, “I won’t be watching,” while yet another disgruntled fan commented, “I can’t wait until I don’t watch you.”
A more understanding fan wished Ryan well, saying, “Pat Sajak left some huge shoes to fill, I wish Ryan Seacrest the best of luck in this new role! Y’all gotta remember, everyone is new at something at some point.”
Seacrest Allegedly Regrets ‘Wheel of Fortune’
While Seacrest hasn’t responded to the backlash, a previous report said he was already having anxiety over hosting Wheel of Fortune, as he’s realizing what big expectations he’s facing as Sajak’s replacement.
“Despite his glittering résumé, Seacrest is terrified,” a source told Closer. “He breezed through hosting Idol and had Kelly Ripa to lean on during Live — but Wheel is a different beast altogether.
“The entire future of this beloved show now hangs on his shoulders, and he knows it!” they continued, adding Ryan knows how harmful it’ll be to his career if his new hosting gig flops. “It’s the biggest risk of his career. Ryan’s always been the picture of charm and confidence — but this time, the stakes are higher than ever!”
The announcement of Seacrest as the new host previously sparked controversy, primarily due to reports that his salary is in the tens of millions. This revelation came alongside the unsettling news that Vanna, who has been co-hosting with Pat Sajak since the show’s inception, had not received a pay raise in nearly two decades.
In response to this disparity, Vanna sought legal counsel and was reportedly prepared to leave the show. Behind closed doors, negotiations took place to secure a new salary for her. However, it remains uncertain whether her new compensation matches that of Seacrest, despite his being the newcomer.
Seacrest is currently filming Wheel of Fortune episodes, which are expected to air in the fall.