Ryan Seacrest, the dexterous Hollywood master of ceremonies, will be named the next host of “Wheel of Fortune,” succeeding the longtime host Pat Sajak in 2024, according to two people familiar with the plan.
The prompt selection of a star like Mr. Seacrest, made just two weeks after Mr. Sajak announced he would step down next year after more than four decades on the job, is a big bet on “Wheel of Fortune.” The show has demonstrated remarkable durability even as traditional television has declined in the wake of streaming entertainment.
The swift decision by executives at Sony Pictures Television, which produces the show, also suggests that they are hoping to avoid the succession fiasco that nearly overwhelmed their other hit game show, “Jeopardy!’Vanna White, Mr. Sajak’s longtime “Wheel of Fortune” co-host, is under contract for another year, and is in negotiations to continue with the show, said one of the people, who spoke on condition of anonymity because the talks were confidential..
Persons:
Ryan Seacrest, ”, Pat Sajak, Seacrest, Sajak, Vanna White, Sajak’s
Organizations:
Hollywood, Sony Pictures Television