Why Ryan Seacrest's ‘Wheel of Fortune’ Premiere Divided Viewers

Ryan Seacrest, who replaced Pat Sajak as the host of "Wheel of Fortune," made his highly anticipated debut on Monday, but it has left fans split.

While many praised the 49-year-old for his smooth transition into the role, others were surprised by the absence of any reference to his predecessor during his premiere.

The decision not to acknowledge Pat Sajak's iconic four-decade run sparked a wave of reactions on social media, with some viewers expressing disappointment over Ryan Seacrest's hosting debut.

Ryan Seacrest Makes His Debut As New 'Wheel Of Fortune' Host

ryan seacrest #wheeloffortune day1 pic.twitter.com/r77ktelPkq

— What's Da Bizness (@whatsdabizness) September 9, 2024

"Wheel of Fortune" kicked off its 42nd season Monday night, and things are already shaking up. The flashy new set wasn’t the only thing fans had to adjust to. The biggest change? The new host.

Ryan Seacrest made his grand debut, but the show’s longtime frontman, Pat Sajak, was nowhere to be mentioned.

The new era began with announcer Jim Thornton hyping up the crowd: “And now together for the first time, here are the stars of our show, Ryan Seacrest and Vanna White!” But the glaring absence of any shoutout to Sajak left fans feeling all kinds of ways.

What Did Ryan Seacrest Say (And Not Say)?

Did you guys watch the new era of @WheelofFortune last night?! pic.twitter.com/Y6Kb0OCi9E

— On Air/Ryan Seacrest (@OnAirWithRyan) September 10, 2024

“I am your host, Ryan Seacrest. I still can’t believe my luck of being here with you tonight to continue this legacy of this incredible show with all of you," the 49-year-old said after stepping out on stage. "And, of course, my good friend, Vanna White."

“Thank you for the very warm welcome,” he continued. “Hosting ‘Wheel of Fortune’ is a dream job. I’ve been a fan of this show since I was a kid watching it in Atlanta with my family. And I know how special it is that ‘Wheel’ has been in your living rooms for the past 40 years."

"And I’m just so grateful to be invited in. I also know I’ve got some very big shoes to fill," Seacrest said, referring to Pat Sajak's hosting duties, though he never actually said his name. "So, let’s play ‘Wheel of Fortune.’”

Social Media Reacts To Ryan Seacrest Hosting Duties

Introducing, for the very first time, our hosts: Ryan Seacrest and Vanna White! Let's play some Wheel of Fortune

Read More