Ryan Seacrest has faced an outpouring of criticism from Wheel of Fortune fans ever since he took over as host following Pat Sajak’s retirement.
While Seacrest, known for his role as the emcee of American Idol, is no stranger to the spotlight, his new role on the long-running game show has been met with controversy. Fans have expressed their discontent over several aspects of his hosting style, with particular focus on his “awkward” on-air habits.
Since joining the show, Seacrest has received backlash for a variety of reasons, including his energy levels, hosting style, and, notably, his fashion choices. Many fans have voiced their dissatisfaction with Seacrest’s wardrobe, comparing it unfavorably to Pat Sajak’s classic look. In online forums such as Reddit, viewers have criticized his casual attire, including sport jackets paired with open-collar shirts, a departure from Sajak’s signature suit and tie combination.
Fans argue that this shift in style represents a break from the traditional, timeless look that was once a hallmark of the show.
One Reddit user commented, “The most obvious difference is how they dress. Pat always wore a suit or sports coat, and always with a tie. For me, it was a nod to a classic look that has been lost over time. Ryan tends to wear sport jackets with open collar shirts.” Others have speculated that Seacrest’s more relaxed attire may be part of the show’s broader attempt to modernize and appeal to a younger demographic. “Perhaps it’s due to their generation gap of 27 years. Or the show’s producers saw it as part of the modernization of Wheel of Fortune,” one critic said, acknowledging the shift in the show’s overall tone.
However, it’s not just his fashion that’s causing a stir. Seacrest’s hosting style has also drawn sharp criticism. Many viewers have pointed out his tendency to laugh and chuckle frequently during episodes, a habit that some find jarring and out of place. “Is it just me or does Ryan laugh and chuckle too much? Feels slapstick when not awkward,” one user wrote. Another viewer shared a comparison to Sajak, saying, “Pat was so demure about it and Pat did not want to disappoint the contestant, or make them feel bad – classy.”
Some fans believe that Seacrest is still in the process of adjusting to the role, with one comment noting, “I think Ryan is still just in that ‘prove yourself’ part of the job like we all get with any new job. It takes a while before you can let your guard down, relax, be yourself.” Others have pointed out the broader changes happening on Wheel of Fortune, with some speculating that the show is moving away from its classic format in favor of a younger, trendier audience. “The show is absolutely getting retooled to appeal to a younger audience. They had a live read for kombucha tea recently. I don’t know if Pat Sajak even knows what kombucha is,” one viewer observed, hinting at the generational gap that may be influencing the show’s direction.
Despite the backlash, Ryan Seacrest has acknowledged the monumental challenge of stepping into Pat Sajak’s shoes. Sajak hosted Wheel of Fortune for an impressive 41 years before announcing his retirement in June 2023. Reflecting on the pressure of replacing a beloved icon, Seacrest told People, “Well, no one can ever do what Pat has done. He is incredible. So do I feel pressure? Sure. People love watching him … and I hope to do a great job as well.”
While Seacrest may never fully replace Sajak in the eyes of loyal fans, his tenure as host is still in its early stages, and it remains to be seen how his hosting style will evolve. As Wheel of Fortune moves forward with its new host, viewers continue to debate whether Seacrest’s modern approach can win over the show’s long-time fans or if the changes will only further distance the show from its original charm. Only time will tell if Seacrest can carve out his own place in the hearts of Wheel of Fortune fans or if the backlash will continue to mount.
