American actor Ryan Seacrest (Live with Kelly and Ryan, American Idol) has been named to helm the Wheel of Fortune game show, which he will begin hosting in September 2024. He succeeds longtime host, Pat Sajak, on the show for 40 years, who announced his departure from the show two weeks ago.

According to The New York Times, it’s a big bet for Sony Pictures Television, which produces the show, to put Seacrest in front of the camera. Against the backdrop of the decline of traditional television, the show was able to maintain its longevity and popularity with the public.

“I am very humbled to follow in the footsteps of the legendary Pat Sajak,” Ryan Seacrest wrote on his Instagram account Tuesday. “[…] I look forward to learning everything I can from [Pat Sajak] during this transition. »

“I can’t wait to continue the tradition of turning the wheel by working alongside the great Vanna White. »

Over the years, Wheel of Fortune, on the air since 1975, has attracted a whole generation of viewers. The show drew an average of 8.6 million viewers per night last season.