For over 40 years, Wheel of Fortune was anchored by the unbeatable duo of Pat Sajak and Vanna White.
Fans grew up with them, and their partnership became part of American TV history.
But since Ryan Seacrest stepped into Pat’s shoes last year, whispers have been growing that things may not be as smooth behind the scenes as they look on screen.
Ryan Seacrest’s Non-Stop Schedule Raises Concerns
Seacrest, now 50, is known for juggling multiple jobs at once, but it seems his jam-packed schedule may be catching up with him.
According to an audience member at a recent Wheel taping in Culver City, California, he appeared “super skinny” and struggled to stay focused, often forgetting names and relying heavily on notes.
That’s hardly surprising when you consider everything on his plate—Wheel of Fortune, his daily radio show from New York, American Idol auditions, major music festivals, holiday specials, and even producing reality shows like The Kardashians.
Add in workouts, dating, and philanthropy through his foundation, and it’s clear why some insiders fear burnout is inevitable.
A History of Health Scares
This isn’t the first time fans have worried about Seacrest’s health.
In 2020, during a live American Idol broadcast, viewers noticed his eye drooping and his speech slurring, sparking fears of a stroke.
Representatives quickly denied it, blaming exhaustion during the pandemic.
But the concerns returned two years later when his eye appeared to droop again on Idol’s finale.
Despite those moments, Seacrest has never slowed down.
Friends say he “always says yes” to new opportunities, even if it means running himself into the ground.
Recent photos showing him looking gaunt only fueled speculation, though others point out he’s dedicated to fitness, yoga, and working with a new trainer.
Vanna White’s Future in Question
While Seacrest battles questions about his health, Vanna White is quietly heading into her own career crossroads.
She’s been turning letters since 1982, but her next contract negotiations could determine whether she stays on or finally steps away.
Insiders say ABC executives don’t want to raise her salary much further, even after she recently secured a “substantial increase” for the 2025–2026 seasons.
She currently earns about $3 million a year—far less than Sajak’s $15 million during his run.
The network reportedly values her presence but may consider replacing her if she pushes too hard for a bigger paycheck.
Still, fans know that White’s image is just as tied to Wheel of Fortune as Sajak’s ever was, making any change risky.
The Risk of a Double Exit
If Seacrest does hit a breaking point and White ends up walking away, the show could face a massive upheaval only a year after saying goodbye to its legendary host.
Ratings have remained steady so far, but producers seem unwilling to gamble with higher salaries or Seacrest’s health slowing him down.
As one insider put it, “It will take something serious for Ryan to stop.”
But with two of Wheel’s biggest names in limbo, the future of America’s favorite word puzzle game show could be heading for its biggest spin yet.