Vanna White is preparing for the upcoming season of “Wheel of Fortune” alongside new host Ryan Seacrest, dispelling any previous doubts she had about their working partnership. In a recent interview with “CBS Sunday Mornings,” the 67-year-old admitted to initially feeling apprehensive when Seacrest joined the team after her longstanding collaboration with Pat Sajak for over four decades.
“I think our chemistry is good… I had no idea what to expect when I’m used to one person for so long. I was very scared, but he’s doing a great job,” said White.
She explained that she had reservations about returning to the show following Sajak’s departure and working with Seacrest for the first time. However, after traveling together and getting to know each other better over the past couple of months, White told People magazine that Seacrest is professional, kind, and hardworking, reaffirming his suitability as a game show host.
These comments come in response to speculation made over the summer that White was considering breaking her contract due to awkwardness with Seacrest. To address these rumors, White took to social media and posted a photo of herself and Seacrest captioned: “Friends on and off camera. Enjoying one of our favorites, Chicken and Dumplings!”
Seacrest expressed his excitement about his new role on “Wheel of Fortune” and expressed gratitude for being able to work alongside White on this beloved show. He described it as an incredible franchise that holds special meaning for people.
White and Sajak have been hosting the syndicated nighttime version of “Wheel of Fortune” since its debut in 1983, making them the longest-running game show hosts in American TV history. While Sajak announced his retirement in 2023 before taping his final episode in June this year, White signed on for a two-year deal as co-host until the end of the 2025-26 season.
Although Sajak will no longer be seen on camera, he will continue playing a role behind-the-scenes as a show consultant for three years. The premiere episode of Season 42 featuring Ryan Seacrest as host will air on September 9th.