Vanna White Reveals Sweet Backstage Tradition With Ryan Seacrest
Vanna White is stepping into her 43rd season as co-host of Wheel of Fortune, and this year marks her second alongside Ryan Seacrest, who took over hosting duties after Pat Sajak’s retirement in June 2023.
At 68, White says she is still thriving in her role and cherishes every day she gets to share the stage.
Speaking to PEOPLE for its first-ever Generations issue, White reflected on her long-running role and why she continues to love it.
“I know everybody, it is one big happy family here. So this is my home away from home. And it’s to see people win every single day and make them happy – there’s not a better job.”
White also praised Seacrest, 50, for seamlessly stepping into the role left by Sajak. Despite knowing him for over 20 years, the two had never worked together before last season.
“He has great energy, and he wants to do a great job. When he first started, he said, ‘Look, I can never replace Pat Sajak. I’m just going to go in and do the best job I can.’ And that’s what he’s done. The transition was flawless.”
According to White, audiences have embraced Seacrest because he shows more of his authentic self on Wheel of Fortune. “He gets to talk a little more here,” she explained, adding that viewers get to see the same engaging personality that he brings to American Idol.
Off-screen, the duo has developed a lighthearted tradition. White revealed that before walking out to film, she always turns to Seacrest with one question:
“‘Do I have lipstick on my teeth?’ And of course, he’s always honest with me,” she laughed.
Seacrest, for his part, has spoken warmly about his co-host. In December 2024, he told PEOPLE how thoughtful White has been since they began working together. After he mentioned drinking strong black coffee and worrying about stained teeth, White surprised him with a gift.
“She’s so super generous and sweet and kind. She even brought me white strips the very next day. She went to the store and brought me white strips.”
Calling her “an institution, an icon,” Seacrest added:
“She’s amazing. She’s everything you think Vanna White will be when you meet her.”
Fans can look forward to seeing more of the duo’s chemistry when Celebrity Wheel of Fortune returns on Friday, Sept. 26, at 8 p.m. ET on ABC. Meanwhile, Wheel of Fortune continues airing weeknights in syndication and is available to stream the next day on Peacock and Hulu.
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