Latest news with #VannaWhite
Forbes
18 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Forbes
Vanna White Is Television's Most Unshakable Star
A cross four decades of television, Vanna White, 68, has become synonymous with staying power. In an industry where reinvention is often necessary for survival, White's consistency on Wheel of Fortune has been her greatest asset. Season after season, fans continue to watch as she turns letters with the same grace, poise and radiant smile she first brought to the stage over 8,000 episodes ago. "In 1980 I moved to Los Angeles to pursue an acting career. In 1982, I heard they were looking for a replacement on Wheel of Fortune," says White. Courtesy of Vanna White 'As times change, so does fashion and hair and all that stuff,' says White, her distinctly South Carolina accent still unchanged after more than 40 years in Hollywood. 'But I'm still doing what I did the first day I started. I'm on TV as myself. I'm not playing another person. And I might not talk that much, but I'm hoping I can give a good feeling to people out there. That's my whole reason for doing this job.' For millions of viewers, White isn't just a fixture on their screens; she's someone who is very much a part of their daily lives. 'People tell me all the time, 'I grew up watching you. My parents grew up watching you.' It's just an awesome thing,' says White. It's a consistency that, two years ago, appeared in doubt. When longtime Wheel co-host Pat Sajak announced his retirement in 2023, White also considered hanging up her heels. 'I thought I would step away with Pat,' she says now. 'My thought was, how am I going to continue working with a new person? It's a scary thought to bring somebody new in. And then I thought to myself, Am I ready to retire? And the answer was, in my heart, no. I still love what I do.' "I was so green when I started, and Pat was so talented and poised." recalls White. "He was a good teacher and settled my nerves." Sony Pictures Television/Califon Productions Inc In negotiating the terms of her first contract without Sajak as her copilot, White struck a reported two-year, $10 million deal for 34 days of filming per year. It was her first pay raise in nearly two decades. (White had been making a reported $3 million a year, a healthy salary that was nonetheless a fraction of what Sajak was earning.) When asked about the raise, White declined to comment on her salary specifics, saying only, 'I have a contract for this next year, and we'll go from there.' (A spokesperson for White, when asked again by Forbes about the financial terms, likewise declined to comment.) "When I moved to Hollywood, I walked down the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and I said to myself, one day I'm going to have a star. And then I did," says White. Sony Pictures Television/Slenzak What White will detail is the precision of her Wheel filming days, which follow a choreographed routine befitting a show decades into its time on air. She begins with a 7:00am call time where some 30 outfits await try-ons. By 9:00am, it's time for hair and makeup followed by interviews with press. At 11:30am, it's time to film the first three episodes. After a lunch break, three more episodes tape until around 6:00pm, when it's time to call it a day. 'They have it so precise after all these years,' says White, who explains that the schedule almost never veers off course—only the rare event of a puzzle board malfunction could cause a delay. The final episode of season 42 aired in June and season 43 will pick up this fall with a chance for an even wider audience to tune in. Starting in September, episodes will be available for next-day streaming on Hulu, Hulu on Disney+ and Peacock for the first time. Last season, the show's first full season with Ryan Seacrest as White's co-host, averaged nearly 8 million viewers an episode. If the show manages to cultivate a new online audience of viewers eager to stream in-season content, White could end up challenging Betty White (no relation) for her Guinness Record for longest television career for a female entertainer. "People have gotten to know me," says White of viewers. "They know my family, they know I have kids." Courtesy of Vanna White For the time being, though, White can continue to build on her own Guinness Record: Television's most frequent clapper. When the record-keepers did their accounting in 2015, White had clapped 3,721,446 times during 32 seasons—a numerical proof point for the positive energy White emits from the screen. Wheel 's producers lean into White's on-air warmth, too: In May, a special episode of Wheel of Fortune traveled to White's hometown of North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, for a behind-the-scenes look at the early life of the beloved host. Online, viewers have a chance to weigh in on White's outfits and can now cast a vote on their favorite of the week. 'People enjoy seeing the outfits I wear every day. What's Vanna going to wear today? I think that's become part of my role,' she says. 50 Over 50: 2025 Our fifth annual list of 200 women who are redefining what's possible in life's second half. VIEW THE FULL LISTST White also says she and her team have realized that the last 30 seconds of the show are more than just throwaway small talk: 'At the end of the show, we're able to have 20 to 30 seconds of something personal about us. So people have gotten to know me. They know my family. They know I have kids. They know my favorite ice cream,' says White. For curious minds: maple nut and banana nut from Original Painter's Homemade Ice Cream in her hometown, which also sells a 'Vanna Banana Split' (made, naturally, from White's beloved maple nut and banana nut). "It's a half hour of family fun, people enjoy that," says White about Wheel. "There's no drama. It's all about winning and making people happy." Sony Pictures Television/Bright Lights Ice cream isn't the only product boasting White's name or likeness: In 2023, she fronted a limited-edition makeup line with Laura Geller, a brand known for products tailored to mature skin. She also has her own yarn collaboration with Lion Brand Yarns. (White, an avid crocheter, last season gifted Seacrest a blanket she spent 40 hours making.) Half of the Vanna's Choice yarn proceeds go to St. Jude's, totaling more than $2 million in contributions to date. When asked by Forbes if she envisions someone else taking over her role when the time comes, White admits she's not sure and thinks it should be up to the audience. She does, however, have some advice for whoever might one day step into her shoes at the puzzle board: 'Be yourself, and know the entire alphabet!' More from Forbes Forbes 50 Over 50 Global: 2025 By Maggie McGrath Forbes Meet The Judges For The 2024 50 Over 50 List By Maggie McGrath Forbes The Age Of Disruption: Meet The 50 Over 50 2023 By Maggie McGrath
Yahoo
07-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Vanna White Is Reportedly 'Worried' Her 'Wheel Of Fortune' Days Are Numbered
Vanna White is not ready for those goodbyes! The media personality is reportedly in a state of panic over the possibility of being replaced on her eight-figure-earning hosting job. Vanna White joined the famous show "Wheel of Fortune" in 1982 as a co-host alongside television veteran Pat Sajak. Now, she is the new host, Ryan Seacrest's partner in progress. Sources close to the show are stating that Pat's daughter, Maggie Sajak, stands out as a likely replacement for the 68-year-old. Maggie reportedly joined the show as its social correspondent in 2021, which means she is not a stranger to how things run on and off the screen. Although insiders confirm that no offers have been put on the table yet, Maggie remains an attractive choice because she is younger and a more prudent option. Maggie reportedly earns significantly less than Vanna's $10 million per year, and the show's producers view her as a way to cut costs. "It's no wonder Vanna is worried," the source noted. Sources also reveal that her latest significant salary increase, which was negotiated after Pat's replacement, Ryan Seacrest, reportedly more than tripled her previous earnings. Vanna's contract is set to expire in the summer of 2026, and the powers that be are not willing to sit down at the discussion table for any more increases. Another insider explained to RadarOnline that the TV host was able to have things go her way the last time because the producers and the network were in a different position. However, now things may not work in her favor, and she is reportedly concerned because "what other gig pays $10 million for only 34 days of work?" Yes, Vanna gets paid a sumptuous $10 million a year for appearing on set for a total of 34 days. Back in March, E! Online shared the version of events from Vanna's POV when she appeared on the Morning Show. In her words, "We film about 34 days a year. That's it. But we film six shows a day. Come on, you could feel bad for me." Vanna did not get any sympathy for apparently having such a great time at her job, but the host shared that she does not see her days off as any form of vacation. She also explained how the show producers made her job easier by switching from a manually controlled system to a high-tech environment that allows her to do fewer physical tasks while on set. Vanna noted that the production team installed a laser system that works in conjunction with her hand motion to "light up" the letters and perform other functions. Co-hosting the "Wheel of Fortune" for decades has earned the TV personality "a half-hour of family, and escape from much." She emphasized that the show leaves a positive trail in her path, and she enjoys "being part of that." The South Carolina native proved she is still young at heart when she got her first-ever tattoo earlier in the year from her daughter, Gigi Santo Pietro. Vanna welcomed her daughter, Gigi, and her son, Nikko, with her ex-husband, George Santo Pierro, before their divorce in 2002. The Blast reported that Vanna revealed she decided to get the pink-hued tattoo in her inner wrist so she could get a good look at it daily and think about her daughter. Although her daughter did the honors of giving her her first ink, Vanna clarified that it was 100% her choice to go through with the process. The 68-year-old nervously settled for her daughter's favorite shade of pink after minutes of deliberation. During the process, she was surprised it did not hurt as much as she had pictured it in her head. When her tattoo was finally revealed, Vanna cheered and, with a thankful heart, noted to her daughter that it was exactly what she had wanted. Tattoos are not the only thing that elates the former beauty pageant contestant. The pace of her current relationship with John Donaldson also makes her smile. The actress revealed during an interview that while they have not made things official by walking down the aisle, they maintain a deep level of commitment towards each other. She described Donaldson as the masculine version of herself, who understands her person and vice versa. Vanna noted that they have been a couple for 12 years and often feel like they are a married couple. "Do we have to get married? No, because we feel comfortable in our relationship. You know what I mean? I know that he's the one. He knows I'm the one," the author declared. She continued that the topic of marriage rarely comes up in their conversations because they are aware of their feelings for each other. The multi-talented personality also gives excellent advice, and Ryan attested to this when he began his role as Pat's replacement on the show. The 50-year-old recalled that Vanna encouraged him to go out there and have a blast. Vanna reportedly educated him about the show and how it affords one the advantage to loosen up and be the best version of themselves. "It has a little looseness to it. It doesn't have to be so strict and so formatted. It has those moments of real life and humanity," said the 68-year-old to the former "Keeping Up with the Kardashians" producer. Ryan filled Pat's big shoes as the show's new host in 2024, taking over the baton from Pat, who had brought smiles to the faces of contestants on the beloved game show for four decades. "Thank you for the very warm welcome. Hosting 'Wheel of Fortune' is a dream job. I've been a fan of this show since I was a kid watching it in Atlanta with my family," Ryan declared in his debut episode for the show's 42nd season, which premiered last September. What does the future hold for Vanna White as 2026 approaches?
Fox News
22-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Fox News
'Wheel of Fortune' host Ryan Seacrest face-plants while attempting stunt on game show
"Wheel of Fortune" host Ryan Seacrest is no stranger to onstage mishaps. During the May 19 episode of the beloved game show, the 50-year-old TV host took a tumble during the closing segment, igniting a wholesome response from co-host Vanna White. While wrapping up the "Margaritaville"-themed episode, Seacrest tripped over his feet and managed to do a full somersault while trying to get onto his inflatable parrot-shaped pool float. "I need a breather after that," he told White, who was comfortably lounging on her float. "Why do you look like you've done this before?" "Because I have. Just relax," she responded. "I've never heard that term before," he joked. "Ryan Seacrest is my spirit animal," one fan commented. This is not the first time the TV host has wiped out on stage. In April, Seacrest took a dramatic tumble while filming the game show. During the episode, he revealed that one of his favorite new festivals is the Gloucestershire Cheese Rolling Festival, which is hosted in the United Kingdom. He explained that participants at the festival race down a hill to chase after a wheel of cheese. At the end of the race, participants win the massive cheese wheel. In an effort to demonstrate, Seacrest took a tumble and face-planted on the stage. "Oh no! Are you going to be OK?" White asked Seacrest before confirming, "He's OK!" The "American Idol" host ran back to center stage and held up the "Wheel of Fortune" cheese. He then hid behind White, out of breath and waved goodnight to the viewers. In one viral moment from a March episode, a former professional wrestler named Bill Page put Seacrest in a headlock. Page was seen grabbing Seacrest by the neck, with one arm underneath the host's chin and the other firmly on top of his head. At first, Seacrest did not resist and was all smiles. However, as Page continued to hold the host in a headlock and lowered his body to the ground, Seacrest began to tap out. The host continuously banged his hand on the game show table, as he indicated that he had enough of the intense wrestling move.
Yahoo
22-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Vanna White and Ryan Seacrest Shake Up Wheel of Fortune With Casting Change
A major change came to Wheel of Fortune this week. Hosts Ryan Seacrest and Vanna White want to shake things up, so they shared a casting announcement on social media. America's Game Show has undergone many changes in such a short amount of time. Seacrest took over for longtime host Pat Sajak. The show underwent several changes, including a new puzzle board and graphics. WoF watchers also noticed that the show changed the contestant introductions. According to The U.S. Sun, the hosts took to the show's official Instagram account to share an announcement. They want to break tradition with casting. You might've already noticed this week's episodes look a little different. There's a good reason why. 'It's a friendly wheel rivalry all this week as we introduce something new,' Seacrest shared. MORE: Ryan Seacrest wants to make this BTS change. 'For the first time, our groups of contestants know each other. They're all-wheel fans who watch the show together,' White explained. 'And tonight, not only are they playing for cash and prizes, but also for the ultimate victory: bragging rights.' The caption reads: 'We're spicing things up this week with a brand new way of playing wheel!' The change kicked off on Monday, May 12, with a group of friends who work as firefighters. But what do fans think of this change? The outspoken viewers haven't liked most of the changes that have taken place since September 2024. Fans on Reddit shared their thoughts on this casting change. So far, the comments have been mixed. One Redditor admitted they loved this shakeup. The fan wrote, 'I really enjoyed the dynamic of them all being friends, and while I know it shouldn't be the norm, I'd love to see it more often. I have never seen it before…' However, another user was turned off by this concept. The Redditor commented, 'Not a fan of this concept and making the million dollar wedge a group prize is stupid, especially since all 3 have to not land on bankrupt.' A third fan had a suggestion for this change. They noted, 'If they're going to make the million-dollar wedge a group prize that can be lost if any of the three hit a bankrupt for the rest of the game, then the payout should be a million dollars each if it's won!' What are your thoughts on this new shakeup to casting? Would you like to see more friends play together on the show? What other changes would you like to see take place? Let us know in the comments section.
Yahoo
10-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Vanna White Shares Sweet Childhood Photo with Fans on 'Wheel of Fortune'
Vanna White is sharing a different side of herself. After taking fans (and Wheel of Fortune cameras) on a tour of her hometown, North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, the television personality, 68, revealed a never-before-seen photo and video from her childhood. According to TV Insider, the throwback media pieces were first shared at the end of the Wednesday, May 7, episode of Wheel of Fortune. The show and White later shared them in a joint Instagram post. The PEOPLE Puzzler crossword is here! How quickly can you solve it? Play now! The post included a clip from the show in which White discussed that the black-and white family photo she was presenting was taken in 1961. "My family, my brother Chip, my mother Joan, my father Herbert and myself," explained White about the throwback image. In the photo, the television personality is seen wearing an adorable dress with her hair pinned to one side as her brother sits beside her. She then showed a video, presumably from Easter, where she was seen picking an egg from the bottom of a tree and handing it to her mother. 'You know, isn't it funny that I'm still wearing those pretty dresses? And it's still purple," said White. Fans gushed over the sweet image and clip in the comment section of the Instagram post. "Isn't she just precious!! Look at that cute little dress!! A beautiful lady!!!❤️❤️," one comment read. Another fan wrote, "Before I even got to the last slide I said to myself "aww even then Vanna was wearing cute little dresses" and then she said it herself in the video lol. So cute 🥰." A third comment read, "Cute little girl, in a cute little lavender dress.💜💜🙋♀️🙋♀️🙎♀️🙎♀️." White has been a hostess on the Wheel of Fortune since 1982. She famously turned the letters while former host Pat Sajak guided contestants as they spun the wheel and guessed the letters of a phrase for over four decades. Never miss a story — sign up for to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. After Pajak's final appearance on the show aired in June 2024, Ryan Seacrest took over his role. Read the original article on People
