Vanna White Shares Her BTS Tradition with Ryan Seacrest Ahead of

White says ‘Wheel of Fortune’ — which Seacrest began co-hosting last year — is her “home away from home” from more than four decades at the game show

Ryan Seacrest and Vanna White on ‘Watch What Happens Live’. Credit :Charles Sykes/Bravo via Getty

NEED TO KNOW

Vanna White tells PEOPLE in our first-ever Generations issue about the behind-the-scenes tradition that she and her co-host Ryan Seacrest have before taping Wheel of Fortune
The television personality says the game show is her “home away from home” for more than four decades
Celebrity Wheel of Fortune returns on Sept. 26 at 8 p.m. ET on ABC

Vanna White is celebrating her 43rd season as co-host of Wheel of Fortune — and her second alongside Ryan Seacrest.

The television personality, 68, tells PEOPLE in our first-ever Generations issue, on newsstands Friday, that she is “still having a great time when I come to work” after more than four decades.

“I know everybody, it is one big happy family here,” she says of the beloved game show. “So this is my home away from home, so I feel comfortable here. And it’s to see people win every single day and make them happy, there’s not a better job.”

Vanna White and Ryan Seacrest for ‘Wheel of Fortune’.Chris Patey/CBS

White has nothing but praise for Seacrest, who took over hosting Wheel of Fortune from Pat Sajak after he announced his retirement in June 2023.

“I’ve known Ryan for over 20 years, but I’ve never worked with him until last year,” she says of Seacrest, 50. “He has great energy, and he wants to do a great job. I mean, when he first started, he goes, ‘Look, I can never replace Pat Sajak. I’m just going to go in and do the best job I can.’ And that’s what he’s done.”

“The transition was flawless,” she adds.

Vanna White and Ryan Seacrest for ‘Wheel of Fortune’.Eric McCandless/Sony Pictures Television

For more from Vanna White and her son Nikko Santo Pietro, plus more famous families, pick up the latest issue of PEOPLE on newsstands Friday.   

White shares that WOH viewers “get to see the real him too because he talks more and he’s himself, and he’s himself on American Idol as well, but he gets to talk a little more on Wheel of Fortune.”

Since Seacrest took the reins of Wheel of Fortune a year ago, the pair — who also co-host Celebrity Wheel of Fortune, which returns to ABC on Sept. 26 — have even developed a sweet tradition backstage.

“Before we go out, I turn to him and say, ‘Do I have lipstick on my teeth?’” she says, adding that “of course” the media mogul is always honest with her during their checks before stepping on the Wheel of Fortune set.

Seacrest opened up to PEOPLE in December 2024 about how his co-host helped him keep his teeth white with a thoughtful gift.

“She’s so super generous and sweet and kind,” he shared at the time. “She even brought me — because I was saying, I drink very strong black coffee and my teeth, sometimes you can see it — she brought me white strips. She brought me white strips. She went to the store the next day. She brought me white strips.”

“She is an institution, an icon,” he added. “She’s amazing. She’s everything you think Vanna White will be when you meet her!”

Celebrity Wheel of Fortune returns on Friday, Sept. 26 at 8 p.m. ET on ABC. Wheel of Fortune airs weeknights (check local listings) and is available to stream the next day on Peacock and Hulu.

WoF host Vanna White ‘at risk’ as bosses ‘might start thinking about replacement’

With chaos allegedly reigning behind the scenes on Wheel of Fortune, some insiders are cautioning that Vanna White’s job could be at risk

As chaos allegedly reigns backstage at Wheel of Fortune, whispers are emerging that suggest Vanna White’s longtime gig on the show could be at risk.

The game show, which features White alongside Ryan Seacrest, who is in his second season as a host after taking over for Pat Sajack following his retirement, is allegedly facing some tough decisions about its future as concerns mount.

While White also recently gave a sweet gift to Celebrity contestant Derek Hough, it appears that among the discussions is what to do when her contract is once again up.

According to show insiders who spoke to the Daily Mail, the entire show could be in for a major overhaul, as she is not only potentially on the chopping block, but Seacrest could also be at risk over concerns he is heading for burn out.

When it comes to White, her fate allegedly rests on whether or not she requests more money to stay on for more years.

While bosses at the show are content with the show’s ratings, they are reportedly adamant that they do not want to increase her pay if she asks for it.

“This big change was from Pat to Ryan, and for a moment, execs were considering getting rid of Vanna, but in the next negotiations, if Vanna stays on the same page, then they will likely offer a few more years at the same rate,” the source told the publication.

“They are happy to keep her around, but if she pushes for more, then they might start thinking about a replacement,” they added.

As for White, she allegedly knows she doesn’t have a lot of leverage, but is working to try and get a new deal before anything else happens.

“Vanna knows what she is working with and knows she doesn’t have that much leverage,” the source said. “But she’s currently having her agents and lawyers deal with it before any type of public griping happens.”

White negotiated a raise with the help of Bryan Freedman, the attorney representing Justin Baldoni in his ongoing legal woes with Blake Lively, last year, after going 18 years without one.

She then signed on for the 2025-2026 seasons with an increased salary.

She is reported to make $3 million per year, though it is far less than her co-hosts, with Sajak reportedly making $15 million a season before he left.

Drew Carey Explains How He Lost 80 Pounds and Beat Diabetes

He reversed diabetes and ditched medication after lifestyle overhaul.

The Price Is Right host reveals how cutting carbs, running, and cardio workouts helped him shed 80 pounds and reverse type 2 diabetes.Photo by Getty Images

Drew Carey hit his breaking point. After years of junk food, soda binges, and little movement, the Price Is Right host was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes and already living with heart disease. His doctor warned that without major changes, his future would be cut short.

That wake-up call sparked a dramatic turnaround. In 2010, Carey dropped 80 pounds, reversed his diabetes, and has kept most of the weight off for more than a decade. “I feel like I’m in my 20s again,” he told PEOPLE.

Carey revealed that during his first year as host of The Price Is Right, his diet spiraled. “I would go out to a diner after filming and order pasta, a cupcake, and iced tea with a bunch of lemons,” he told PEOPLE. Later, he’d snack on tortilla chips and down sodas before bed.

The breaking point came when his doctor diagnosed him with type 2 diabetes. “It was miserable to live like that,” Carey said, adding that his doctor warned his future could be “shorter” if he didn’t overhaul his habits. He was already battling heart disease—he had an angioplasty and stent placed in 2001, according to Parade.

How Drew Carey Dropped the Weight

Carey lost 80 pounds in 2010, shrinking from 262 to 182 pounds. “Once I started dropping a couple pant sizes, then it was easy,” he told PEOPLE. His regimen: cutting out carbs, focusing on lean proteins, and doing “lots of cardio.” He later embraced running, telling Runner’s World that training for a 10K gave him the motivation to stay consistent.

The comedian has kept most of the weight off for more than a decade. He’s even joked to PEOPLE that he’s lost “1,000 pounds” over his lifetime—but the real victory was reversing his diabetes and ditching medication.

How to Upgrade Your Nutrition if You’re Pre-Diabetic

Carey swears by avoiding carbs altogether. But nutrition experts note balance matters. The Mayo Clinic emphasizes that whole grains, fruits, and vegetables are critical for energy—especially for the brain.

If you’re pre-diabetic, small changes can make a big impact:

Cut added sugars: Swap soda for sparkling water or unsweetened tea.
Load up on fiber: Beans, lentils, and leafy greens help regulate blood sugar.
Choose lean protein: Chicken, fish, or plant-based proteins support muscle and satiety.
Move more: Pair nutrition with at least 150 minutes of weekly exercise, per CDC guidelines.

As Carey put it: “It’s better being like this. It’s so freeing.”

The “Conners” Finale Mystery SOLVED! Michael Fishman Finally Reveals Why He Was Missing – You Won’t Believe the Story! Millions tuned in for “The Conners” finale, but one familiar face was noticeably absent, sparking a wave of fan speculation. Now, Michael Fishman is breaking his silence, offering a candid explanation that sheds light on his surprising non-appearance

Michael Fishman addresses absence from The Conners finale after fan questions

Michael Fishman shared a statement after being left out of The Conners finale, expressing gratitude and understanding.

Photo:AFP

Original Roseanne star Michael Fishman has responded after fans noticed his absence from The Conners series finale.

Fishman, who portrayed D.J. Conner from childhood through the show’s spinoff, was neither seen nor mentioned in the final episode, which aired on ABC.

Following the broadcast, Fishman, 43, addressed the situation via an Instagram video, explaining that many fans had reached out for his reaction. “People seem to want there to be some kind of conflict or controversy,” Fishman said. “All I’ve ever had was empathy and understanding.” He emphasized his gratitude for the show’s legacy and its loyal audience.

Fishman credited Roseanne creator Roseanne Barr for the franchise’s success and said he was honored to have been part of it. He added, “I prefer to be a lighthouse in the dark,” expressing his wish to offer comfort rather than criticism.

Fishman first joined Roseanne at age six and remained a part of the franchise until his character was written off in Season 4 of The Conners, explained by D.J. joining his wife overseas. At the time, he issued a positive public statement, expressing love and appreciation for the opportunity.

According to showrunner Bruce Helford, the decision not to include D.J. in the finale was due to the shortened season and a focus on completing storylines for remaining characters, rather than bringing back characters without a significant narrative arc.

I’m Still Baffled At This 1 Happy’s Place Storyline, But Thankfully They Changed Steve Howey’s Part In It

Happy’s Place has marked a welcome return to comedy for sitcom star Reba McEntire. She portrays Bobbie, who inherits half of a Knoxville, Tennessee bar called Happy, founded by her father of the same name. She also gets to know her paternal half-sister, Isabella. Her Reba co-star, Melissa Peterman, is another standout as the consistently funny bartender Gabby. For Gabby, she’s a woman with nonstop humor who insists on doing things her way and standing out from the crowd.

There’s an intriguing storyline for Gabby regarding her desire to have a baby. This plot would’ve included a potential sperm donor portrayed by Steve Howey, another former cast member from Reba. According to Happy’s Place showrunner Kevin Abbott, Howey ended up appearing in one episode of Happy’s. Rather than play a sperm donor, Howey played Danny, a wealthy business owner Gabby met at a dog park and encouraged him to host a Christmas party at Bobbie’s tavern. The sperm donor storyline would’ve been interesting, but it may come up again since Happy’s Place has been renewed for season 2.

Gabby Wanting To Be A Mother Arc In Happy’s Place Is Difficult To Believe

Gabby’s Mom Storyline Will Be A Challenge To Incorporate Into The Show

Gabby is a hilarious character who tends to poke fun at her friends and coworkers, including Bobbie and Emmett, the cook at Happy’s. However, there are also times when Gabby expresses her feelings of worry, including her intentions of being a good mother. This is shown in season 1, episode 12, “Baby Doll,” where Gabby reveals her uncertainties regarding motherhood. In order to face her fear of being a good mother, Gabby gets an AI baby doll to help her practice caring for a baby, along with assistance from Bobbie and her expertise as a mom.

While Gabby’s baby storyline is intriguing and unveils the character’s emotional complexity, it may be a challenge moving forward because of Gabby’s advanced age, making her past the time of childbearing and likely not having enough money for IVF. If Gabby were to follow through in having a baby, another additional challenge for her would be in balancing her work as a bartender and her responsibilities as a mom. However, the benefit of Gabby continuing her pursuit of being a parent would allow her character to be fully fleshed out, displaying her sentimental qualities and not just being a bartender.

Steve Howey Was Supposed To Be Gabby’s Donor (But His Role Was Changed)

Howey Instead Played A Business Owner In The Show’s Christmas Episode

Steve Howey had a major Reba reunion with his former co-stars, McEntire and Peterman, on Happy’s Place. Howey’s chemistry with Peterman is especially evident when he made his sole appearance thus far on Happy’s in season 1, episode 7, “Ho-Ho-Howey.” While Howey was supposed to play Gabby’s sperm donor so she could potentially have a baby, he instead played Danny, a rich business owner. Gabby tries to persuade Danny to hold a Christmas party at Bobbie’s tavern in order to raise funds for the staff at Happy’s so they can afford health insurance for the year.

Happy’s Place Character
Happy’s Place Actor

Bobbie
Reba McEntire

Isabella
Belissa Escobedo

Gabby
Melissa Peterman

Emmett
Rex Linn

Steve
Pablo Castelblanco

Takoda
Tokala Black Elk

Danny
Steve Howey

Show more

Howey’s changed role from sperm donor to wealthy business owner was warranted for the sake of providing a funny storyline for the show’s Christmas episode. According to Abbott, if the sperm donor storyline were to be included, the holiday episode wouldn’t have been considered suitable for kids and younger audiences. Howey’s role as Danny is also funny here because he is slightly fooled by Gabby, as she makes him believe that she is Bobbie so he can hold the party at the tavern. In return, Danny pretends to be Emmett to get Bobbie’s attention.

Howey was also only available to star in Happy’s for a brief period of time, causing the network to do a Christmas-themed episode rather than have him play Gabby’s sperm donor. The Christmas episode was a better choice at the time in order to establish the chemistry and hilarity between Danny, Gabby, and Bobbie (with a reference to the actors’ days on Reba). However, given that Happy’s Place will return for season 2, Howey could reprise his role as Danny in order to further develop his friendship with Gabby, and to potentially help her become a mother.

What Are More Interesting Storylines For Gabby In Happy’s Place Season 2

Season 2 Can Focus On Gabby’s Backstory And Potential Future Interests

While Gabby’s mother plotline could return in Happy’s Place season 2 with Danny’s help, there are other storylines for Gabby that may be explored in the show’s sophomore year. For instance, Gabby’s family history and backstory could be explored further, especially after Gabby and Bobbie learn that they are sisters in Happy’s Place season 1, episode 10, “The MacAllister Girls.” Gabby’s journey to becoming a bartender at Happy’s could also be shown with flashbacks that establish her interest in bartending, as well as what she went through in her young adult life.

Whether it’s Gabby’s goal to be a mom or her future aspirations, Gabby is a funny and multidimensional character who will continue to be one of the driving forces behind Happy’s Place and its successful run thus far.

Gabby’s other interests should be included in season 2 of Happy’s Place. This includes her expertise at auctions, which was introduced in season 1, episode 16, “Whiskey Business,” where Gabby saved Bobbie and Isabella from selling an old whiskey bottle found at Happy’s. Gabby could have a future as an auctioneer that leads to big business for herself and Happy’s. Whether it’s Gabby’s goal to be a mom or her future aspirations, Gabby is a funny and multidimensional character who will continue to be one of the driving forces behind Happy’s Place and its successful run thus far.

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The Fate of Tim Allen’s ‘Shifting Gears’ Has Finally Been Decided

ABC is keeping the engine running on its newest family comedy. The network has officially renewed Shifting Gears for Season 2, giving fans more time with Tim Allen and Kat Dennings‘ delightfully dysfunctional father-daughter duo. Created by Julie Thacker Scully and Mike Scully, with Michelle Nader serving as showrunner, the multi-cam sitcom follows estranged father Matt (Allen) and daughter Riley (Dennings) as they attempt to rebuild their fractured relationship — with plenty of sarcasm, misunderstandings, and reluctant bonding along the way.

There initially seemed to be little chance of the show not being renewed when it debuted in January and quickly became ABC’s most-streamed comedy premiere ever, pulling in a whopping 17 million cross-platform viewers in just seven days, but doubts began to creep in as live viewership dipped as the season progressed, even though the show consistently saw solid gains in delayed viewing.

Plot details for Season 2 are being kept under wraps, but Season 1’s finale teased new romantic entanglements for Matt, renewed tensions with Riley, and plenty more opportunities for generational clashes between Allen’s conservative leading man and the more liberal younger members of the cast—the exact kind of juxtaposition that his audience has come to expect and enjoy.

Tim Allen Loves His Role in ‘Shifting Gears’

Allen is one of the kings of sitcoms in Hollywood, but after leading two of television’s most successful sitcoms—Home Improvement (1991-1999) and Last Man Standing (2011-2021)—he truly wasn’t sure if he really wanted to do another series. But when he was proposed Shifting Gears, and saw that the set was designed after his own North Hollywood garage, he admitted it was “what I always wanted” from a show.

“I love the sitcom format because of my stand-up,” he explained. “I get to be in a live audience situation. When they said, ‘What would you do if you did another one?’ I said, ‘If a guy had just lost his wife and he’s still able to be funny and [work on] a relationship with an older daughter … and I’d like to build hot rods!’ Kat Dennings said, ‘[Some people] get into a relationship because [their] parents don’t like it. Your parents tell you not to do something, so you do it.’ My daughters are not like that. I mean, we’ve had our problems, of course.”

Kat Dennings Says ‘Shifting Gears’ Has Been “A New Experience”

Dennings has also spoken recently of how much she’s enjoying her part in the series. She was interviewed on the Not Gonna Lie podcast, saying she was excited about playing a mother for the first time in her career, even though she joked she’s still “12.” Dennings stated it was the chance to try something new that drew her to the series, as well as getting to act with Allen, adding that he’s always “very present” and “really feeling these things.”

“In the first episode, we both get emotional and it was real. It’s incredible to deal with him and the kids. I mean, everybody is really amazing. That just makes the funny parts even funnier and such a relief to do. It’s just been a very good, organic-feeling show to me. Which is new, it’s a new experience for me.”

What is ‘Shifting Gears’ About?

The show sees Allen play Matt Parker, who runs a car restoration shop and has been widowed for a short period of time. His life is turned upside down when his estranged daughter, Riley (Dennings) rocks up with her two kids — Carter and Georgia — in tow. The new normal forces Matt to try and confront past grievances he may have had, while trying to reconnect with his family. Maxwell Simkins plays Carter, Riley’s teenage son. He is socially awkward, dependent on technology and a source of a lot of the generational clash humor on display. Barrett Margolis plays Georgia, Riley’s younger daughter. She brings youthful energy to the household and often serves as a bridge between her mother and grandfather. Seann William Scott and Daryl “Chill” Mitchell play Gabriel and Stitch, two family friends who work at the auto shop alongside Matt, and provide a lot of the comic relief.

Where Do I Know Tim Allen From?

Allen made his name as Tim “The Tool Man” Taylor in the long-running sitcom Home Improvement, which aired between 1991 and 1999 on ABC. It made him a household name and led to two massive breakout movie roles for the comedian. Allen also returned to sitcoms between 2011 and 2021, when he played Mike Baxter, a conservative outdoor goods store exec and family man on Last Man Standing for both FOX and ABC.

The first major movie role for Allen was Scott Calvin in Disney’s The Santa Clause. Allen played a miserly, career-driven divorcée who neglected his son, before being given the chance to become Santa Claus and redeem himself. He would then reprise the role in two sequels and Disney+’s The Santa Clauses series. Allen is also the voice of Buzz Lightyear in Pixar’s legendary Toy Story franchise. Allen has voiced the Space Ranger from 1995 through to today, with Toy Story 5 due for release in 2026.

Shifting Gears is streaming now on Hulu. Stay tuned for more updates on the progress of Season 2.

The Moment That Defined “The Conners” Finale: Laurie Metcalf’s Unscripted Emotion You HAVE to See! The bittersweet goodbye to “The Conners” took an unforgettable turn thanks to a genuine and powerful outpouring of emotion from the incomparable Laurie Metcalf. This raw, unexpected moment transcended the script, adding a layer of heartbreaking beauty to the final scene. Click here to witness the unvarnished truth of this pivotal television moment and discover how Metcalf’s vulnerability resonated with audiences, making the series’ conclusion even more poignant and deeply impactful. Don’t miss the clip everyone is talking about!

‘The Conners’ Series Finale: How Laurie Metcalf’s Unexpected Burst Of Emotion Impacted The Final, Bittersweet Moment

Lecy Goranson and John Goodman on ‘The Conners’ Disney/Christopher Willard

SPOILER ALERT: This story contains details from Wednesday’s series finale of The Conners on ABC.

After more than three decades, the Conners have held their final family meeting in that kitschy midwestern living room. The Roseanne spinoff celebrated its series finale tonight with one final nod to the matriarch while acknowledging that life is still good for this working-class clan.

Below, executive producers Bruce Helford, Dave Caplan and Bruce Rasmussen talk about their decision to reference Roseanne in the final episodes, and how Laurie Metcalf‘s unexpected display of emotion changed the final scene for the better.

 

DEADLINE: Before we dive into the episode, Dave Caplan, it’s time to acknowledge your Ph.D that is listed in the credits.

 

DAVE CAPLAN: Yeah. I finished my degree. It’s in media-related psychology. It’s how storytelling affects its audience.

BRUCE HELFORD: We’re smart people.

BRUCE RASMUSSEN: Or dancing monkeys.

DEADLINE: Talk about your decision to name the last episode “The Truck Stops Here.”

CAPLAN: It was the bookend, because the first episode of The Conners had trucking in it, right?

HELFORD: Yeah. The first episode of the reboot was called “Keep on Truckin’.” We kept on trucking.

DEADLINE: So did you know for a couple years that you wanted to pay homage to the Roseanne character in the final season?

HELFORD: There were mentions all along. We never shied away from that. The family loved their matriarch. For the finale, we felt it was right to honor the character and honor Roseanne herself, who birthed the show. It was important to make that part of the end.

DEADLINE: That was kind of an unremarkable payout from the drug company, who Dan Conner sued over Roseanne’s accidental opioid overdose.

RASMUSSEN: The money was funny. We knew they weren’t going to win the lottery. The whole point of the last six episodes was that …

HELFORD: … the Conners were never going to get more than just a nod, and that’s really what that was about.

CAPLAN: The Conners aren’t going to win at the end, and also they’re symbolic of the struggling working class in our country who’s not going to win, either. We didn’t want to betray the audience’s trust in us to tell it like it is by having them have a windfall. They’re doing well in other ways.

 

HELFORD: The reboot started because we wanted to undo the legacy of the lottery. We wanted to find a better ending for the show, so we weren’t going to go back.

DEADLINE: Jackie’s line of dialogue at Roseanne’s grave about not knowing where mom was. Was that your way to acknowledge Estelle Parsons since you couldn’t get her to reprise Beverly for the finale?

HELFORD: The last time we saw her was her getting on the train. It was too much to ask her to come out for the sixth episode. It’s a lot. She is 97. She’s a phenomenal presence. I like the idea that she’s never going to stop being out there, wandering the country on the rail. She’s a flying Dutchman, I think.

DEADLINE: What would you have done with Johnny Galecki, had you persuaded him to reprise his role as David?

CAPLAN: Because we didn’t have him so much, we had to make him a terrible father.

HELFORD: He really did not want to keep doing it. He loved us and we loved him, and he was always invited and we’re all very close with him. We were kind of in a position where, how do you explain this guy without killing him? This guy isn’t around. So unfortunately his character got tarnished in that way. Had he been there, he would’ve definitely been part of the Mark story, for sure.

DEADLINE: Lecy Goranson and Sara Gilbert were quite emotional in those final scenes.

HELFORD: Oh yeah. Yeah, for sure. People in the audience were crying, for God’s sake. When they say goodbye, Laurie Metcalf started it. We had no idea that was coming. The way Laurie said goodbye was not how you say goodbye after having pizza and knowing you are coming back the next day.

CAPLAN: It made no sense at all in the story, and yet when we saw it, we couldn’t deny it was so moving.

HELFORD: It was real. They were saying goodbye.

CAPLAN: You’ve got to go with it.

RASMUSSEN: We did other takes and that weren’t as emotional. They felt less real.

HELFORD: This was the actors saying goodbye to each other for the last time.

CAPLAN: John had pitched to us that he wanted to thank the audience to the camera. We knew there was going to be a break in the fourth wall at the end of that scene anyway, so we felt like all together, it wasn’t as jarring.

HELFORD: I don’t think I’ve ever seen it before on any show where the actors actually break the fourth wall and show their emotion. I can’t remember one.

RASMUSSEN: They earned that, man, for doing the show for as long as they did.

HELFORD: And the audience gets to see something very honest about how they felt, which is really terrific.

CAPLAN: All the actors felt this intense need to say goodbye to the audience, and that’s kind of where it all came from. How can you blame them?

DEADLINE: Did it take much convincing by John to get you to allow him to talk to the camera?

CAPLAN: Oh no. He’s really scary. We try not to say no to him if we can help it. He’s a big guy.

HELFORD: He’s such a sweet guy. Not all shows have this. Some are very fortunate, but the audience is part of our family and we’re part of theirs, and we really feel that on this show. You feel the connection with the audience and 37 years is a long time for these characters to have lived in people’s minds.

CAPLAN: Being on the other side of the monitor, when John did it, it was like, oh my God, it really hit you.

DEADLINE: How were the final months? Was there any regret from the actors that it was ending?

 

HELFORD: I think everybody would’ve been fine continuing forever.

CAPLAN: It didn’t feel stale in any way. The stories were still easy to come by and the actors were still finding things in the characters after all this time.

HELFORD: There were no contracts to go five years or seven years or anything like that. Every year we had a new contract and everybody had to agree that it was still worth continuing with that legacy. Every year we all agreed to continue, but all things do have to come to an end, and this was the right time. ABC granting us those six episodes gave it a real miniseries type of ending. So we had a cohesive line. It wasn’t just a bunch of episodes and then all of a sudden, an ending.

DEADLINE: In those final flashback moments, you didn’t include old clips of Roseanne. Why not?

CAPLAN: It was contractual.

HELFORD: She was very gracious in allowing us to continue the show because she had a say in that. When she realized it would be putting 300 people out of work when the initial reboot was canceled, she gracefully allowed us to continue without her. It really was about these people. This show was really about the lives of these other people in the family, the Conners, and we wanted to focus on them.

(L-R) Laurie Metcalf, Nat Faxon, Sean Astin, Lecy Goranson, John Goodman, Katey Segal, Sara Gilbert, Jay R. Ferguson, Stony Blyden and Emma Kenny on ‘The Conners’ Christopher Willard/Disney

DEADLINE: Which one of you is going to take the afghan home?

HELFORD I don’t know where the afghan went. We had to reclaim a couple of props when we did the reboot. Michael Fishman had taken Godzilla home with him [after Roseanne]. We had to get that back. We had to make a new couch because somebody bought the one.

CAPLAN: I bet Sara has it.

DEADLINE: The last and most important question: What are you guys going to do now? Will you do another multi-cam?

RASMUSSEN: I was doing drama. I was at sitcom writer for years, and then I did drama for 10 years, and Bruce called me up and said, do you want to come back and do comedy? This was one of the few shows that you can do real gut-wrenching stuff, real honest stuff, and then do really funny stuff. So if these guys have something like that, I’m absolutely in.

HELFORD: Once you’ve seen the mountaintop on a show like Roseanne, then you really have to continue that honesty. It makes us feel great to honor the nobility of the working class. We all come from that, and that is something sorely lacking on TV. So yeah, we’re not done.

‘Last Man Standing’ Is Joining UPtv Lineup (VIDEO)

If you’ve been missing Last Man Standing or never got a chance to watch while it was on ABC, then Fox after it was saved, you’re in luck: TV Insider has learned exclusively that UPtv has licensed all nine seasons and it is joining the network’s weeknight lineup.

The Tim Allen-led series will officially join the schedule on Monday, January 2, and will air Mondays through Fridays from 8/7c until 11/10c. But first, there will be an all-day marathon on Sunday, January 1, from 9a/8c until 3/2c. So if you’re a fan of the family comedy series, there’s one way to celebrate the new year.

Watch the promo above for a look at the many reasons to watch UPtv, including a look at Last Man Standing joining the lineup that includes Blue Bloods, Love Sundays premiere movies, Gilmore Girls, and more.

“We’ve had our sights set on Last Man Standing for quite some time as it’s a fun, uplifting show that fits perfectly with our current line-up of the biggest family series of all time,” said Hector Campos, vice president of content strategy and programming at UPtv. “The dynamics around the family relationships are very relatable and one of the reasons we believe this beloved series has such a loyal following. Our viewers know that we are our show’s biggest fans and that we love to lean into the fandom with programming events like ‘GilMORE the Merrier’ and ‘Red Hot Reba–thon.’ We encourage fans to join us weeknights on UPtv to see how we celebrate Last Man Standing.”

Last Man Standing follows Allen’s Mike Baxter, a happily married father of three daughters. He tries to escape all the female drama at home in the warm, manly embrace of his job at the Outdoor Man store, a sporting goods emporium where he is marketing director. He also revels in his Outdoor Man vlog, which he uses as a pulpit for his opinions, which often have nothing to do with the store’s merchandise. When he’s supposed to be selling mountain bikes or kayaks, he somehow spouts off about the environment, health care, politics, or any other topic occupying his mind.

In addition to Allen, the cast includes Nancy Travis as Mike’s wife, Vanessa Baxter; Amanda Fuller as their oldest daughter, Kristin Baxter; Molly McCook as middle daughter Mandy Baxter-Anderson, Christoph Sanders as Mandy’s husband, Kyle Anderson; Jordan Masterson as Kristin’s husband, Ryan Vogelson; Jonathan Adams as the Baxters’ neighbor and Mike’s co-worker, Chuck Larabee; Krista Marie Yu as foreign exchange student Jen; and Hector Elizondo as Mike’s longtime business partner and Vanessa’s step-father, Ed Alzate.

The series was created by Jack Burditt. Kevin Abbott, Matt Berry, Kevin Hench, Ed Yeager, Allen, Marty Adelstein, Shawn Levy, Becky Clements, Richard Baker, Rick Messina, Pat Bullard, Mike Teverbaugh, Linda Teverbaugh, and John Amodeo served as executive producers on Season 9.

Last Man Standing, Reruns Airing Weekdays, Beginning Monday, January 2, 8/7c, UPtv

Reba McEntire FIRES BACK at Joy Behar’s SHOCKING Dolly Parton Insult! The gloves are off in Nashville as superstar Reba McEntire unleashes a powerful defense of the beloved Dolly Parton after a stinging and unexpected attack from “The View” co-host Joy Behar. Insiders reveal the depth of Reba’s fury over the perceived disrespect towards a national treasure, igniting a celebrity feud that has the music world buzzing. Prepare for a dramatic showdown as one country queen fiercely protects another, exposing the raw nerves beneath the glittering facade of fame.

Reba McEntire Defends Dolly Parton After Joy Behar Insult

Reba McEntire jumped to good friend Dolly Parton’s defense after The View co-host Joy Behar insulted the country music icon. Why would the journalist have anything negative to say about the “9 to 5” singer? Keep reading for all the details on the feud.

The View Co-Host Shades Dolly Parton

Pop singer Beyoncé released her first country album last month to mixed reviews. One of the tracks on the Cowboy Carter is a cover of Dolly Parton’s major hit “Jolene.” Beyoncé didn’t stay with the original lyrics, however. Dolly’s version begs Jolene not to take her man. Beyoncé’s version takes a more aggressive approach, practically daring Jolene to even try.

Beyoncé’s version opens with the verse, “Jolene, Jolene, Jolene, Jolene/I’m warning you, don’t come for my man.”

Some diehard Dolly Parton fans were offended that the R&B singer changed the lyrics. However, Joy Behar thought the new lyrics were actually better than the original. The co-host of ABC’s The View said, “I like the subject of Beyoncé taking over the lyrics,” on a podcast this week.
Joy Behar-YouTube
She added, “I just think that the original thing with Dolly Parton is so, like, anti-feminist, worrying about some good-looking woman taking your man.”

Many fans took to social media to defend Dolly Parton against the claim.

Reba McEntire Defends Her Friend After Joy Behar Insult

Reba McEntire and Dolly Parton have been friends since the 1980s or longer. The blonde bombshell even made a guest appearance on Reba’s self-named sitcom, Reba. Maybe she will make a cameo on Reba’s upcoming NBC show.

TMZ reporters caught up with Reba McEntire to ask her about Joy Behar’s comment about Dolly Parton. The “Fancy” singer simply laughed and said, “Beautiful day, isn’t it?”

The reporter pressed Reba more, asking if she had a favorite “Jolene” cover – Dolly’s or Beyoncé’s. The Voice coach again took the high road again with a “Nope,” as she walked away. Watch the interaction between Reba McEntire and TMZ:

Reba McEntire says it’s wonderful to have Beyoncé making country music.

As for Joy Behar saying Dolly Parton’s song Jolene is anti-feminist, Reba just laughed. pic.twitter.com/Eud2hBeBhb

— Yashar Ali 🐘 (@yashar) April 4, 2024

 

Not Everyone Is A Fan Of Beyoncé Covering “Jolene”

Joy Behar may be a fan of Beyoncé’s lyrics changes, but not everyone is on board. British singer and actress Lily Allen isn’t a fan. She spoke out about the cover, saying it “wasn’t good.”

She added, “It’s very weird that you cover the most successful songs in that genre.”

What do you think about Joy Behar’s diss of Dolly Parton’s version of “Jolene”? Share your thoughts in the comments.

Total chaos backstage at Wheel of Fortune! Brutal whispers about Ryan Seacrest… why Vanna White is in jeopardy… and the ‘serious’ fear keeping staff up at night

With four decades under his belt, it was always doubtful that anyone would challenge Pat Sajak’s tenure as host of Wheel of Fortune.

Together with his loyal letter-spinner Vanna White, the septuagenarian became one half of TV’s most beloved game-show duos .

After the brouhaha over the news of his departure in 2023, White, 68, continued as a familiar face for fans as Ryan Seacrest, 50, was ushered in as his successor last September.

But, after just one year, the game show could now be on the cusp of a complete overhaul, according to a show insider, who claims Seacrest is heading for burn out and White could be shafted if she demands more money in forthcoming contract negotiations.

Concerns were raised for Seacrest at a recent recording, with one attendee telling the Daily Mail he looked ‘super skinny’ and ‘kept losing his train of thought.’

‘The producers kept having to help him,’ they claimed. ‘It was hard to watch because he forgot names and had to refer to his notes a lot.’

Wheel of Fortune could be on the cusp of an overhaul, according to insiders, who claim Vanna White could be shafted if she demands more money in forthcoming contract negotiations

There are also fears for Ryan Seacrest who could be heading for a burn out as he juggles multiple jobs, with fans expressing concern over his ‘gaunt’ appearance in recent weeks

Long known as one of the busiest stars in showbusiness, Seacrest juggles Wheel of Fortune – which is filmed in Culver City, California – with his daily radio show On Air with Ryan Seacrest – which is broadcast from WABC-TV in New York City.

American Idol is also in the mix, with Seacrest currently shooting auditions for the upcoming 24th season.

Last week he hosted the iHeartRadio Music Festival in Las Vegas and is now preparing for hosting duties at this year’s KISS FM’s Jingle Ball in Los Angeles followed by Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve from Times Square.

If that wasn’t enough, he also executive produces The Kardashians on Hulu having produced the hit series Keeping Up with the Kardashians from its inception on E! in October 2007.

Outside of work, the Georgia-native is an active philanthropist through his Ryan Seacrest Foundation, which he founded in 2010.

He is no stranger to the devastating toll his hectic schedule can take on his health. American Idol viewers were left terrified when his right eye started drooping and he appeared to slur during an episode in 2020. The following morning, he was absent from Live with Kelly and Ryan – a gig he gave up in 2023.

At the time representatives for Seacrest were quick to shut down claims he had suffered a stroke, instead insisting that he was simply ‘in need of rest’ after ‘adjusting’ to the unchartered territory of the Covid-19 pandemic ‘with the added stress of having to put on live shows from home.’

But despite the world resuming normal service two years later, he was inflicted once again with a drooping and twitching eye during the finale of American Idol. Some viewers claimed he was also tripping over his words.

Concerns were raised for Seacrest at a recent recording, with one attendee telling the Daily Mail he looked ‘super skinny’ and ‘kept losing his train of thought.’

In recent months Seacrest – who started working out with a new trainer, Dodd Romero, and picked up Pilates and yoga – has found himself the subject of concern over his health

‘It is going to take something serious for him to stop,’ an insider told the Daily Mail. ‘He always says ‘yes’. He is tired and running his body down’ (pictured on the set of Wheel of Fortune)

Clearly not enough to slow him down, one insider told the Daily Mail it will ‘take something serious for him to stop.’

‘Ryan doesn’t sleep,’ they said. ‘He does his radio show, American Idol, and Wheel of Fortune, then he’ll have meetings on other shows he is trying to produce, he will do voiceovers, commercials and deal with his charity. Add all that to then just living life. Whether it is a vacation or dating, or working out, he burns the candle at both ends and that isn’t going to stop.’

In recent months Seacrest has found himself the subject of concern over his health. Pictures shared in July left fans questioning his appearance, with the presenter looking lean, while others showed him lifting weights in the gym.

‘Ryan, I respect [your] love for fitness and eating well… But you’re looking pretty gaunt,’ commented one user at the time. Another added: ‘He looks frail to me. I hope he’s doing ok!’

But Seacrest – who started working out with a new trainer, Dodd Romero, and picked up Pilates and yoga – ‘isn’t going to slow down or change.’

‘He had some health concerns a few years ago when his eye drooped and people thought he had a stroke, and he didn’t change his pace from any of that,’ our insider continued. ‘It is going to take something serious for him to stop. He always says “yes”. He is tired and running his body down.’

Another insider added: ‘Nothing has changed and he is doing great! Very healthy and happy. He started shooting season two of Wheel and his first season on Celeb Wheel a few weeks ago and it’s all been wonderful.’

But, if he does burn out, network bosses at ABC may be dealt a double blow should they need to replace him, as upcoming contract negotiations for White could mark the end of her 43-year stint.

Bosses are said to be happy with the current ratings – but are adamant they do not want to increase White’s pay, should she ask (pictured with former host Pat Sajak)

White, who is mom to two children with her ex-husband George Santo Pietro, was one of the three substitutes for former hostess Susan Stafford who left in October 1982, becoming a regular just two months later in December.

Bosses are happy with the current ratings – but are adamant they do not want to increase White’s pay, should she ask.

‘The big change was from Pat to Ryan, and for a moment execs were considering getting rid of Vanna, but in the next negotiations, if Vanna stays on the same page, then they will likely offer a few more years at the same rate,’ said an insider. ‘They are happy to keep her around, but if she pushes for more, then they might start thinking about a replacement.’

White previously teamed up with Bryan Freedman – the man currently representing Justin Baldoni in his ongoing legal saga with Blake Lively – to negotiate a raise after 18 years without one. She was stuck in a stalemate with executives before she signed on for the 2025 to 2026 seasons after what TMZ described as a ‘substantial increase.’

Her reported $3million per year salary had paled in comparison to Sajak who was on a reported $15 million per season, according to Forbes.

The veteran host had fronted the show since 1981, before bowing out in June 2024 after season 41. He briefly returned to host Celebrity Wheel of Fortune.

‘Vanna knows what she is working with and knows she doesn’t have that much leverage,’ our insider said. ‘But she’s currently having her agents and lawyers deal with it before any type of public griping happens.’