It was a day of laughter and playful banter when Ryan Seacrest stopped by Live With Kelly and Mark recently. The fun began when Ryan admitted to making a small error on Wheel of Fortune during his first season as the show’s host. Kelly Ripa, known for her sharp wit and humor, seized the opportunity to throw a friendly jab at her former cohost.
With a twinkle in her eye, Kelly, who is 54, playfully quipped, "So, tell me about Wheel of Fortune now. Have you learned how to spell?" Ryan, 49, was visiting the show with his sister, Meredith Seacrest, on Monday, October 7. The question was lighthearted but carried a playful edge, poking fun at Ryan’s recent hosting debut.
Ryan, always quick on his feet, responded with a laugh, “I don’t text well. She knows that. But on the puzzles, I’m OK. I kind of know where we’re going with the puzzles.” It was a classic exchange between two friends who clearly enjoy teasing each other.
Read also:Hoda Kotbs Suburban Dream A New Home Full Of Love And Memories
Kelly pressed on, asking, “Because you have the answer in front of you, don’t you?” Ryan, unfazed, replied, “Either in my head or in front of me. I mean, it’s somewhere.” The audience erupted in laughter, and it was clear that this banter was all in good fun.
Ryan and Kelly share a long-standing friendship that has translated into a playful relationship on-screen. The duo cohosted Live With Kelly and Ryan for years before Ryan wrapped up his final episode in April 2023. He then stepped into the role of cohost on Wheel of Fortune, marking the start of a new chapter in September when Pat Sajak retired.
While Ryan’s first season on Wheel of Fortune has been smooth sailing for the most part, fans noticed a minor hiccup during the October 4 episode. In the BetMGM Big Winners Tournament, contestant Cody Hunger was attempting to solve a four-word puzzle in the bonus round, hoping to win $94,900. As time ticked down, Cody guessed “out of the way.”
Ryan’s initial silence left the audience slightly puzzled, unsure if the answer was correct. Eventually, Vanna White broke the tension with a joyful reaction, signaling that Cody’s guess was indeed right. Ryan chimed in, saying, “Cody? That’s it.” It was a moment that highlighted Ryan’s ability to handle unexpected situations with grace.
“You got it! Congratulations,” Ryan exclaimed as confetti rained down on the stage. Cody visibly relaxed, relieved to learn his guess was correct.
Despite the minor hiccup, Ryan’s first season as Wheel of Fortune host has been met with enthusiasm from fans and critics alike. His debut week saw a significant ratings boost, drawing millions of viewers eager to see the iconic game show enter a new era.
Read also:Stefanie Powers Shares Her Journey From Acting To Conservation
“Ryan’s walking around with a huge swagger after his ratings success on Wheel of Fortune. Now he’s talking about implementing changes to ‘improve’ the flow of the show,” an insider shared with Closer on October 4. “He’s giving people more responsibility, but some worry it puts Vanna in more peril even if she doesn’t realize it. They both play nice, but let’s be clear—he’s the one getting all the credit.”
“The incredible numbers speak for themselves,” the source added. “If Ryan wants to bring in a younger, more modern hostess, he probably could, even if Vanna has a deal in place. The pressure is on to keep the numbers up, and Ryan’s talent lies in motivating those around him to do his bidding.”