Vanna White had some fears about the on-screen chemistry with her new Wheel of Fortune co-host, Ryan Seacrest.
On Sunday, September 1, the 67-year-old puzzle board icon went on CBS Sunday Mornings and opened up about her relationship with the American Idol host.
When asked if she was nervous about the chemistry with Seacrest, 49, before filming, the game show hostess admitted, “I had no idea what to expect when I’m used to one person [Pat Sajak] for so long. I was very scared.”
(L-R) Vanna White and Ryan Seacrest attend the WOF S42 – Pier Wheel Launch at Santa Monica Pier on August 30, 2024 in Santa Monica, California. White revealed her fears about working with Seacrest on the new era of ‘Wheel of Fortune.’
Phillip Faraone/Getty
Despite her initial fears, White noted that Seacrest is “doing a great job” as the new host of the fan-favorite show.
“I’ve known Ryan for probably 20 years, but in the last couple of months, we’ve done some traveling together for the show, and we got to know each other a little better, too, so I think our chemistry is good,” White added.
In June 2023, Sajak,77, who hosted Wheel of Fortune since 1981, announced he would be stepping down after the 41st season. Seacrest was quickly named Sajak’s replacement later that month.
“This is such an incredible special franchise. It’s more than a TV show. It is something that means something to people, and when I found out that this was an opportunity for me, there was no thought to this. It was like, absolutely, let’s figure it out, and let’s get started,” Seacrest told CBS Sunday Mornings.
However, the E! alum admitted that it took some practice to understand all the rules of the game show. “Wherever I was working, the producers would sometimes come, and they bring contestants, and we would play Wheel of Fortune in hotels just to get familiar with the rules and scenarios and things that can happen so that at some point it becomes second nature,” the LIVE with Kelly and Ryan alum explained.
Seacrest said when discussing his hosting responsibilities, “I want this one [job] to go so well.”
In June, White gave a farewell to Sajak in a video posted to the Wheel of Fortune YouTube channel. “I consider you a true lifelong friend, who I will always adore,” the actress gushed.
Wheel of Fortune will return for its 42nd season on ABC on Monday, September 9, with White and Seacrest as co-hosts.
