Beloved game show host Pat Sajak announced Monday (June 12) that he is retiring following Wheel of Fortune‘s 41st season.
Sajak shared the news in a statement posted to Twitter that read, “Well, the time has come. I’ve decided that our 41st season, which begins in September, will be my last. It’s been a wonderful ride, and I’ll have more to say in the coming months. Many thanks to you all.”
Well, the time has come. I’ve decided that our 41st season, which begins in September, will be my last. It’s been a wonderful ride, and I’ll have more to say in the coming months. Many thanks to you all. (If nothing else, it’ll keep the clickbait sites busy!)
— Pat Sajak (@PatOnWheel) June 12, 2023
Almost immediately following Sajak’s announcement, fans began speculating about who might replace the 76-year-old. Fans felt much like they did three years ago when Jeopardy! host Alex Trebek died. Whoever tries to replace Pat Sajak is going to have some big shoes to fill.
As names begin to pop up regarding Pat Sajak’s replacement, one name immediately rose to the top….Ryan Seacrest.
Seacrest has had one of the most successful hosting careers in recent history, following in the footsteps of Dick Clark and others.
At only 48, Ryan Seacrest has an impressive radio and television resume that includes hosting American Top 40 countdown (2004-present), Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve (2005-present), Prime Time Emmy Awards, LIVE with Kelly and Ryan (2017-2023), and American Idol (2002-present).
TMZ confirmed news that Seacrest was in early talks to replace Pat Sajak. The outlet reported that a source “familiar with the situation” said that the host has been in talks with Sony to discuss the possibility of taking over for Sajak. When Ryan left LIVE with Kelly and Ryan earlier this year, it freed up his schedule to allow him to pursue other hosting opportunities.