Ryan Seacrest, known for his hosting skills, has added a new dimension to his role on “Wheel of Fortune” by introducing physical comedy to the show. The 50-year-old host’s tenure has transitioned the game show into a series of notable events that have caught viewers’ attention.
In the May 19, 2025 episode, which featured a “Margaritaville” theme, Seacrest attempted to ride an inflatable parrot-shaped pool float in the show’s closing segment. The attempt ended unexpectedly as he stumbled and rolled across the stage. Co-host Vanna White observed from her own float.
After the incident, Seacrest told White, “I need a breather after that,” while recovering from the fall. White, experienced in handling such situations, advised him to relax. Seacrest humorously remarked that he’d never received that advice before, highlighting the difference in their hosting styles.
This incident is part of a series of on-stage events that define Seacrest’s era as host. Recognition of these occurrences began in January 2025 when contestant Daniel Thomas from San Marcos, California, inadvertently knocked Seacrest down during a celebration. Thomas, who solved the bonus round puzzle “Guppies,” won $40,000, bringing his total winnings to $71,950, and his excitement led to an enthusiastic embrace that caused Seacrest to fall.
The trend continued into March 2025 when former professional wrestler “Big” Bill Page from Wilmington, Delaware, placed Seacrest in a headlock during his introduction. Page, wearing a Hawaiian shirt with photos of his grandchildren, explained to producers he could demonstrate wrestling moves on the host, opting for a headlock. The demonstration concluded when Seacrest tapped out on the game show table, indicating his surrender.
A significant event occurred on the April 3, 2025 episode when Seacrest attempted to replicate the Gloucestershire Cheese Rolling Festival. After explaining the event’s tradition of chasing wheels of cheese down steep hills in the UK, he tried to illustrate the concept on stage. White held a cheese wheel branded with the “Wheel of Fortune” logo, and Seacrest declared his readiness before running after it.
Seacrest’s attempt to catch the cheese wheel resulted in a fall when he misstepped and landed face-first on the stage. The impact was audible, prompting White to express concern and assure viewers of his well-being. Seacrest quickly regained composure, retrieved the cheese wheel, and returned to center stage, although appearing winded.
The cheese-rolling episode attracted attention on social media, with the official “Wheel of Fortune” Instagram account sharing the video and noting the frequency of Seacrest’s falls. Audience reactions varied from concern to amusement, with suggestions that White might need to step in if Seacrest were injured.
Additional falls occurred during Hawaiian-themed promotional segments filmed in April 2025 at Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort. Seacrest fell twice, once while trying to surf and again during a cartwheel in the ocean. He also faced challenges with hula dancing and riding a water bike, resulting in multiple on-camera falls.
This approach is a departure from Pat Sajak’s hosting style, who held the position for 42 years until retiring in June 2024. Sajak was known for his dry humor and measured interaction with contestants, whereas Seacrest embraces a more participatory style that involves physical activities.
The frequency of these incidents has led to discussions about Seacrest’s hosting style and whether his engagement in physical comedy aligns with the show’s format. Some viewers appreciate the new entertainment angle, while others express concerns about potential injuries. The production team appears to support these moments, as indicated by their social media coverage and continued inclusion of physical segments in episodes.
Seacrest’s extensive television hosting background includes early work at Atlanta radio stations and roles on “American Idol” and “Live with Kelly and Ryan.” His transition to “Wheel of Fortune” marked a significant change, taking over one of TV’s longest-running game shows. The physical comedy elements, intentional or not, have become a defining feature of his hosting period.
White, who has been with the show since 1982, has adapted to Seacrest’s dynamic style while maintaining her role as a steady presence. Her reactions to Seacrest’s incidents often offer comic relief while ensuring contestant and audience comfort.
As Seacrest continues his hosting role, these physical occurrences have become a notable aspect of the show’s current era. Whether more stunts will be introduced or safety measures implemented remains to be seen. Viewers can expect that solving puzzles on “Wheel of Fortune” now includes the added element of observing Seacrest’s physical challenges.