'Wheel of Fortune's' Ryan Seacrest feeling 'pressure' before taking over for Pat Sajak

Renowned TV host Ryan Seacrest has confessed to feeling the weight of expectations as he prepares to step into Pat Sajak's shoes on the popular show 'Wheel of Fortune.'

Seacrest, 48, is set to assume hosting duties in the fall of 2024, following in the footsteps of the beloved Sajak.

Expressing his admiration for Sajak, Seacrest acknowledges the challenge he faces, yet his excitement and anticipation shine through.

'There's no one better than Pat Sajak,' gushed Seacrest during an interview with 'Entertainment Tonight.' 'He is so smooth and seamless. He's beloved by the country. So I feel a lot of pressure. [But] I'm really excited. I can't wait to just give away a bunch of money to people every night.'

Despite the pressure, Seacrest finds inspiration in Sajak's legendary status, recognizing him as a figure to look up to.

Seacrest expressed, 'I've looked up to him forever. He's so good at that job, which, you know, is a little bit of pressure here. But he just said, 'You're going to have a great time. It's so much fun. What's better than giving away money and doing that every single night?' I can't wait to meet the contestants and do it.'

The announcement of Seacrest's appointment as the new host of 'Wheel of Fortune' was made in June on X, the popular social media platform.

Seacrest humbly stated, 'I’m truly humbled to be stepping into the footsteps of the legendary Pat Sajak. It’s been a privilege and pure joy to watch Pat and Vanna on our television screens for an unprecedented 40 years, making us smile every night and feel right at home with them.'

Seacrest's journey to stardom began with the guidance of broadcasting legend Dick Clark, who mentored him and propelled his career forward.

Beyond hosting multiple shows and working as a producer, Seacrest's estimated net worth exceeds $450 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth.

In a surprising announcement, Sajak, 76, revealed on Twitter his decision to step down from 'Wheel of Fortune' following the 2023-24 season.

Sajak conveyed his gratitude to fans, stating, 'Well, the time has come. I’ve decided that our 41st season, which begins in September, will be my last. I’ll have more to say in the coming months. Many thanks to you all.'

While Sajak bids farewell to the iconic game show, his longtime co-host, Vanna White, will stay on board through at least 2026, as confirmed by Fox News Digital.

Vanna White, who joined Sajak on 'Wheel of Fortune' in December 1982, has become an integral part of the show's success.

With this exciting changing of the guard on the horizon, viewers can look forward to Seacrest's debut as the new host of 'Wheel of Fortune,' bringing his own unique charm and energy to the iconic game show.