Ryan Seacrest officially takes over as host of 'Wheel of Fortune': "This is it"

Ryan Seacrest has some big shoes to fill.

Pat Sajak, the longtime host of "Wheel of Fortune," announced his retirement last year, and it was later revealed that Seacrest, who is best known for hosting "American Idol," would be taking over. Now, Sajak is officially passing the baton to Seacrest.

In a new promo on the "Wheel of Fortune" YouTube page, Sajak said to Ryan, "Well, this is it."

The new shows featuring Seacrest will start airing this fall, as indicated by the famous letterboard.

As he led him onto the game show's stage with co-host Vanna White, Sajak inquired, "What are your thoughts?"

"Impressive, Pat," Seacrest answered.

"I am confident that the contestants will adore you, Ryan," White stated.

Sajak informed him that he believed the most enjoyable part would be interacting with the players and familiarizing himself with the audience in his own home.

Sajak replied, "People love this show and thank us for a half hour where they can watch it with their families," in response to Seacrest's statement that the show is a significant part of people's lives.

The newcomer on "Wheel of Fortune" remarked to Sajak and White that they "make it look effortless." Sajak replied, "You'll never find a better job or a better co-host."

Seacrest and White were officially named as the new hosts of "Wheel of Fortune," and the promo concluded with a photo of them standing shoulder to shoulder.

Seacrest paid tribute to Sajak on social media before the final episode, marking over 40 years with the show.

"Congratulations, Pat, on your remarkable run with Wheel of Fortune! Your commitment, charisma, and quick thinking have made the show a cherished staple of American television for many years," Seacrest wrote.

A photo of Sajak and Vanna White on the set of the show was accompanied by his caption.

Seacrest praised the partnership between him and Vanna, stating that it has been legendary and that they have created numerous unforgettable memories for their audience.

"Your exceptional hosting skills have set a benchmark, signaling the conclusion of this chapter. May your future endeavors bring you continued success!"

Sajak will star in the play "Prescription: Murder," which will be staged from July 31, 2025 to Aug. 10, 2025.

In Honolulu, Hawaii, Sajak, a psychiatrist, will plot with his mistress to murder his wife. However, he will be pursued relentlessly by an unassuming LAPD lieutenant, played by Joe Moore, at the Hawaii Theatre Center.

The Hawaii Theatre Center announced that Pat Sajak and Joe Moore will star in the original Columbo mystery thriller, "Prescription: Murder," on its main stage in 2025. The net proceeds from the show will go towards supporting the Hawaii Theatre Center.

Planet Chronicle Digital's Elizabeth Stanton and Lauryn Overhultz contributed to this report.