“Wheel of Fortune” returns to our living rooms on September 14, 2026, for the 44th season. Both Ryan Seacrest and Vanna White will be back with a big change. The pair appeared on “Good Morning America” to announce a huge change to the show’s format. “Wheel of Fortune” players will now get a chance to play “Fortune Frenzy” and a shot to win even more cash when they solve the puzzle.
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Ryan Seacrest and Vanna White Are Very Excited About Fortune Frenzy
Ryan Seacrest and Vanna White explained Fortune Frenzy to “GMA.”
“A lot of people say, ‘How do you get more games into the show?'” Ryan said. “That’s not a long show, so we’re squeezing more gameplay in at the top of the show with a rapid-fire game that we just started to add, which I love.”
He explained that putting Fortune Frenzy in the very beginning of “Wheel of Fortune” will help guests get into the game.
“I think it shakes off the nerves of the contestants at the top because they’re so excited,” Ryan said. “The adrenaline is pumping and rushing, and they’ve got to focus right into playing the game.”
Vanna White added that contestants only have one thing to focus on during Fortune Frenzy.
“There’s nothing else to think about but solve that puzzle. It’s got to be quick,” she said.
Season 44 marks Ryan Seacrest and Vanna White’s third season working together. Though some fans were hesitant about Ryan replacing long-time host Pat Sajak, he’s been very successful in the role. And Ryan said he loves it.
“I always get excited to do the show,” he said. “Giving away the money is super fun. But meeting the people, I love hearing their stories and getting to know them.”
This story’s featured image is by Eric McCandless/Disney via Getty Images
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