The Ryan Seacrest era began with “Wheel of Fortune”.
New host Seacrest, 49, didn’t waste any time spinning around the brightly lit, redesigned “Wheel” set in his first episode on Monday, after “Wheel” icon Pat Sajak retired from the program in June after more than four decades and 8,000 shows.
Seacrest entered the show with a smile through the new, gorgeous sliding doors, walking arm-in-arm with his longtime co-host Vanna White. After brief pleasantries and a “Welcome to the show!” from White, Seacrest took his new place behind the wheel.
“I still can’t believe my good fortune to be here with you tonight and to continue the legacy of this incredible show,” said Seacrest, who grew up watching “Wheel” with his family in Atlanta. “I know how special it is that ‘Wheel’ has been in your living rooms for 40 years, and I’m so grateful to be invited. I also know I have big shoes to fill.”
Ryan Seacrest brings change: But I will not reinvent the “Wheel of Fortune” with Vanna White
Seacrest announces success of “Wheel”, no dismayed grunts from the participants
Even when Seacrerat gently eased into the subject of contestants spinning the wheel and solving word puzzles a minute into the show, there were clear references to the defining moment of the long-running Hangman-inspired TV game show. The first puzzle solved was “Opening Night.” The second puzzle contained the phrase “There’s a first time for everything.”
Each of the three contestants won cash, and Terry Watson of Browns Summit, North Carolina, won trips to Italy and Mexico and $25,893. Watson missed out on another $40,000 in the bonus round, prompting a dejected groan.
But Seacrest declared victory: “No grunts,” Seacrest said, patting Watson on the shoulder. “You won over $25,000 in cash and prizes and amazing trips. Thank you for being here on my first night.”
Seacrest discusses with Vanna White after the show: How did “Wheel” go?
After the game, Seacrest and White discussed the new set.
“I feel like we’ve done one. We’ve got one behind us,” Seacrest said, pointing to the bright lights around him. “How do you like the new set?”
“It’s beautiful,” White said.
“Lots of lights,” Seacrest said. “Let’s hope it stays that way all week.”
With that, the duo said goodbye for the evening.
“See you tomorrow,” Seacrest said.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Ryan Seacrest starts ‘Wheel of Fortune’ arm in arm with Vanna White
