Ryan Seacrest, the newly appointed co-host of Wheel of Fortune, has opened up about his partnership with Vanna White, describing her as “an institution” and an “icon” in the world of television. In a heartfelt interview with PEOPLE, Seacrest expressed his deep admiration for White, who has been a steadfast presence on the show for decades. The two have developed a close professional relationship over the course of filming, with Seacrest praising White for her generosity and kindness, both on and off the set.
Seacrest shared that White’s support has been invaluable as he settles into his role on the game show. He fondly recalled a personal moment when he confided in White about his habit of drinking strong black coffee, which occasionally leaves stains on his teeth. The next day, White surprised him with a pack of teeth-whitening strips. Seacrest, touched by the gesture, expressed his gratitude, saying it reflected her thoughtful nature.
A Strong Professional Bond
Seacrest also shared that, despite having known White for more than 20 years, their bond has only grown stronger since they began working together on Wheel of Fortune. In a previous conversation with PEOPLE, Seacrest admitted that he couldn’t imagine the game show without White. Their time together on set has been described as “magical,” with Seacrest texting White the day he signed his contract to express his excitement about the partnership.
This mutual respect and camaraderie have been evident on screen, as Seacrest and White have seamlessly teamed up to host the beloved show. White, who has been part of Wheel of Fortune since its inception in 1982, continues to be a beloved figure, and Seacrest’s admiration for her role on the show reflects the enduring legacy of her career.
Behind the Scenes: Seacrest’s Hosting Journey
While Seacrest has achieved great success in his career, including hosting American Idol and Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve, he shared that there are always challenges behind the scenes that viewers may not see. Despite his extensive experience, Seacrest admitted that Wheel of Fortune presents its own set of obstacles, and he continues to learn from his co-host and the show’s team.
Seacrest also reflected on his personal life, particularly his recent breakup with model Aubrey Paige in April 2024 after dating for three years. He explained that while the breakup was amicable and they remained friends, his busy work schedule played a significant role in the decision. Paige, who wanted to start a family, was ready to take the next step, but Seacrest wasn’t yet prepared for that commitment. Seacrest emphasized that his focus at the moment is on his professional career, including his work on Wheel of Fortune.
Looking Ahead: Seacrest’s Future with Wheel of Fortune and New Year’s Rockin’ Eve
Seacrest’s 20th year hosting Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve in 2024 marks a milestone in his career. As he continues to expand his hosting portfolio, Seacrest’s presence on Wheel of Fortune has solidified his place as one of the most recognizable TV personalities in the industry. His chemistry with Vanna White has only heightened the anticipation surrounding the show, and fans are excited to see how their dynamic will unfold in the future.
As Wheel of Fortune enters its 42nd season, Seacrest’s fresh approach and enthusiasm have reinvigorated the show, bringing new energy to the long-running series. Fans can tune in for new episodes, with the show airing weeknights on ABC and available to stream on YouTube TV in the U.S.
A Bright Future for Wheel of Fortune
With the support of Vanna White and the production team, Seacrest is poised to continue his successful hosting career on Wheel of Fortune. As the show evolves, the partnership between Seacrest and White will undoubtedly remain a key highlight, captivating audiences with their dynamic presence and shared passion for the game. Seacrest’s admiration for White is a testament to the lasting impact she has had on the show and her role in making Wheel of Fortune an iconic part of television history.
Fans of Wheel of Fortune can look forward to more exciting episodes, as Seacrest and White continue to bring their expertise and chemistry to the stage. Whether you’re tuning in for the puzzles, the prizes, or the personalities, this new chapter of Wheel of Fortune promises to be as entertaining as ever.
