Ryan Seacrest had big shoes to fill when he took Pat Sajak‘s place on Wheel of Fortune. Some fans think he has lived up to Sajak’s legacy, while others want the long-term host back.
Seacrest wrapped up his first season as host of the syndicated game show on June 6. He began the journey in September 2024 after Sajak announced that he was retiring.
Sajak returned for one final celebrity season alongside Vanna White, but is now passing those ropes to Ryan Seacrest as well. Before Sajak, Chuck Woolery hosted Wheel of Fortune from 1975 until 1981.
Pat Sajak took over in 1981 and was joined by White. He hosted for 41 seasons before Seacrest took over. Seacrest, 50, will continue to host for as long as he can.
Wheel of Fortune fans have shared their opinions on which host is better. Reddit users said that Seacrest is “charismatic and can handle the spotlight.” Seacrest has hosted American Idol since Season 1, as well as his own radio show — On Air with Ryan Seacrest, New Year’s Rockin’ Eve, and many other programs.
“Seacrest isn’t really much different than Sajak. He’s still a bit rigid in his delivery, but that will continue to get better with time. I don’t love Seacrest, but I’ll take him over every actor and comedian who would have signed up for a consistent, reliable paycheck on an ongoing basis,” another Reddit user wrote.
“I think Ryan’s done a great job and is a great fit for the show,” said another.
“Ryan is a great host – personable, witty, fun, and genuinely seems to enjoy the contestants and the game. He and Vanna groove nicely, too,” a fan said.
“As awesome as he was, Pat needs to stay retired from Wheel,” another wrote.
On the other side of things, Wheel of Fortune fans said that Pat Sajak was the better host. “Sajak will always be the king of Wheel. It just isn’t the same with Ryan,” one Reddit user said.
“Pat had the best sense of humor. He was always so sarcastic with the contestants. He is missed,” said another.
Who do you think is the better host, or do you like them equally? Vote below.
Wheel of Fortune, Season 43, September 8, check local listings