Ryan Seacrest Feels ‘a Lot of Pressure’ Replacing ‘Legend’ Pat Sajak as ‘Wheel of Fortune’ Host: ‘I’ve Looked Up to Him Forever’
Source: MEGA/ABC
Ryan Seacrest is well aware of the legendary shoes he is set to fill next fall.
During a recent interview, the television personality opened up his feelings toward being named the newest host of Wheel of Fortune following Pat Sajak’s retirement at the end of the 2023-2024 season.
Source: MEGARyan Seacrest feels slight ‘pressure’ about replacing Pat Sajak on ‘Wheel of Fortune.’
“I wanna close my eyes and hear you say it,” Seacrest joked to a reporter when asked about is new gig. “I can’t believe that’s real.”
While Seacrest can’t wait to take over as the game show’s host, the 48-year-old didn’t hesitate when admitting: “There’s no one better than Pat Sajak.”
Source: MEGAPat Sajak announced he’d be retiring upon conclusion of the 2023-2024 season.
“He is so smooth and seamless. He’s beloved by the country. So I feel a lot of pressure. [But] I’m really excited. I can’t wait to just give away a bunch of money to people every night,” Seacrest said while praising the 76-year-old. “He is a legend. I’ve looked up to him forever. He’s so good at that job, which, you know, is a little bit of pressure here.”
Despite slight nerves surrounding his upcoming position, Seacrest said a piece of advice offered by Sajak helped calm him down.
“He just said, ‘You’re going to have a great time. It’s so much fun. What’s better than giving away money and doing that every single night?’ I can’t wait to meet the contestants and do it,” the American Idol host detailed.
While Sajak’s time as the host of Wheel of Fortune will soon come to an end after 40 years, Seacrest reminded fans he’s not done just yet.
Source: MEGARyan Seacrest will take over hosting duties of the hit game show in fall 2024.
“He’s enjoying his last season,” Seacrest expressed. “I start next year. I think it’s a big celebratory season for him and the show.”
Plus, Sajak will still be working for Wheel of Fortune for three more years, though he will do so behind the scenes as a show consultant.
“So, yeah, he’ll be bossing me around,” Seacrest laughingly added. “Why not? I think he deserves that, yeah.”
