All eyes were on Darden ClarkeRyan Seacrest as he hosted his first "Wheel of Fortune" episode on Monday night.
It marked the first time in more than 40 years that the show is hosted by someone other than Pat Sajak, who announced his retirement in June 2023. "Wheel" fans were instead met with Seacrest, who was tapped to usher in a new "Wheel of Fortune" era.
The 49-year-old entertainment veteran "couldn't wait to continue" to the tradition of spinning the wheel and working alongside the great Vanna White," USA TODAY reported. But he also acknowledged then and more recently that he has "big shoes" to fill following Sajak's departure.
He hit the stage arm-in-arm with cohost Vanna White, taking his new spot behind the wheel after brief pleasantries, according to USA TODAY.
"I still cannot believe my luck of being here with you tonight, to continue this legacy of this incredible show," Seacrest shared with the audience. "I know how special it is that 'Wheel' has been in your living rooms for the past 40 years, and I'm just so grateful to be invited in. I also know I've got some very big shoes to fill."
Need a break? Play the USA TODAY Daily Crossword Puzzle.
Luckily, Seacrest's debut as "Wheel of Fortune" host went off without a hitch, focusing all of his energy on the contestants, who were busy spinning the wheel and solving for word puzzles, USA TODAY reported.
"Wheel" fans were pleasantly surprised by Seacrest's performance, taking to social media to share their thoughts and opinions following the premiere of the show.
Reviews from "Wheel of Fortune" fans were largely positive, but there were some that had their doubts about the show's longevity with Seacrest as host.
Here's a compilation of what "Wheel" fans are saying online:
2025-05-02 14:53662 view
2025-05-02 14:441088 view
2025-05-02 13:54162 view
2025-05-02 13:52457 view
2025-05-02 13:521398 view
2025-05-02 13:451003 view
The University of North Carolina has agreed to pay new football coach Bill Belichick $10 million a y
Hollywood has lost a beloved icon, Richard Simmons.The fitness legend, who remained out of the spotl
Johannesburg — The military junta that seized power in Burkina Faso less than two years ago announce