Wheel of Fortune fanatics are expressing their displeasure with Ryan Seacrest joining the legendary show as its new host, and have been vocalizing their strong opinions on who they believe is the ideal candidate for the job.
For context, earlier this week, Seacrest announced on his social media platforms that he would be replacing Wheel of Fortune‘s longtime host Pat Sajak when he officially steps down next year. Sajak revealed that he was retiring from his hosting duties on June 12 after 40 years to pursue other endeavors.
In Seacrest’s official statement, the 48-year-old expressed how honored he is to join Wheel of Fortune and host it alongside co-host and letter-turner Vanna White. Seacrest wrote as he praised both Sajak and White for their decades-long contributions to the show,
“I’m truly humbled to be stepping into the footsteps of the legendary Pat Sajak. I can say, along with the rest of America, that 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.”
As information about Seacrest’s new gig began circulating online, many were surprised and felt it was unfair for various reasons. The list includes Seacrest’s other obligations, from hosting American Idol and his radio show, and others wanting White, who has been involved with Wheel of Fortune since 1982, to replace Sajak.
Social media users took to Twitter to express their frustrations and even proposed why they felt White was perfect for the job.
One individual claimed that White could have easily been promoted to Wheel of Fortune host and had her former position filled by an attractive male.
At the same time, another Twitter user echoed a similar sentiment.
A third person claimed that Wheel of Fortune and its execs have robbed White by hiring Seacrest as the new host.
Another social media user claimed that White is more than qualified for the job as Wheel of Fortune host because she has used her co-hosting and letter-turning skills over the years to bring in a wide range of viewers.
Although it is unclear if Seacrest will be replaced as Wheel of Fortune‘s new host due to the backlash, bigger problems are brewing behind the scenes. Since Seacrest announced that he was joining the show, White has hired an attorney to secure a bigger paycheck because she hasn’t received a raise in 18 years. To date, White has been reportedly making $3 million a year and has only received bonuses instead of a raise.
At this time, it is still being determined if White plans to return as Wheel of Fortune’s co-host and letter turner alongside Seacrest after her contract is up next year.