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Fox Host Brian Kilmeade’s Response to Jimmy Kimmel Is Just Sad

The “Fox & Friends” host seemed genuinely devastated by Kimmel’s attacks on his character and size.

Fox News/Screenshot

Brian Kilmeade tried to play it pretty cool Thursday morning on Fox & Friends, explaining that while he didn’t get to watch Jimmy Kimmel Live! when it was on the night before, he did catch the clip of the host calling him a “phony little creep.”

“I hope your son gets better. I hope your son gets all the care he needs,” Kilmeade told Kimmel. “I’m glad you’re interested, you’re doing a great job bringing the dialogue out. But you should actually do what we’re doing. Talk to the people that wrote it, Senator Graham, Senator Cassidy.”

Of course, Kimmel did talk to Sen. Bill Cassidy, who coined the “Jimmy Kimmel test” after the host opened up about his baby son’s open heart surgery. Cassidy promised Kimmel that he would not support any legislation that made health care potentially unaffordable for parents in Kimmel’s situation, but has now sponsored a bill that cannot make those guarantees. Kimmel called Cassidy out for lying to his face on his show Tuesday night.

Kilmeade went on to claim that he didn’t kiss Kimmel’s ass, as was suggested the night before, but instead simply wanted to support the host, adding, “even when you weren’t getting great ratings I thought you and the show were excellent.” He also denied asking Kimmel to “blurb” his book.

But while Kilmeade was magnanimous enough on television, his hurt feelings were on full display during a longer rant on his Fox News radio show, where he could be seen on video pacing the room as Kimmel’s entire commentary was played for his listeners.

Saying that “obviously” Kimmel is “very emotional” about all of this, Kilmeade explained that while he doesn’t know the host personally, he is “definitely” a fan. “I liked his show before it was popular,” he said. “He’s very funny and behind the scenes he’s kind of cool and plus we both have a sports background.” Basically, it sounds like Kilmeade thought they should be friends.

“But for him to go out and attack me personally and get into my personality…” Kilmeade added, clearly upset. He then started to push back on Kimmel’s assertion that he wishes he were a member of the “Hollywood elite,” asking, “Why would I ever leave the number one network in all of cable, not only news, and the number one morning show in the country, through all these consequential events, to go out to Los Angeles and do entertainment? I mean, what point is that? ’No one will hire him?’ It’s not even based in fact!”

But the part of Kimmel’s rant that really got under Kilmeade’s skin is when he referred to him as being “little.”

“I’m 5’10”, 174, I’m sorry that’s not good enough for you,” Kilmeade shot back. “But I just think if you look at the average chart of a male in America, I think I’m pretty much on target. So, not sure why that was necessary.”

“And I don’t kiss your butt,” he added. “I think you’re good at your job!”

Sheinelle Jones replaces Craig Melvin for day at Today anchor desk as host is ‘in the running’ to replace Hoda Kotb

SHEINELLE Jones has replaced Craig Melvin as Today anchor after it was revealed she was ‘in the running’ to replace Hoda Kotb.

Last week it was revealed that Hoda, 60, has stepped down from her role as co-anchor on the NBC morning show.

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Sheinelle Jones sat in for Craig Melvin on TodayCredit: NBC

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Hoda revealed she was leaving last weekCredit: Getty

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She stepped in for CraigCredit: Getty
Hoda will be leaving Today at the end of the year – and many are wondering who will replace her.

Sheinelle – who is usually a correspondent – stepped in as co-anchor just for the day, for Craig Melvin.

It comes after The Sun U.S exclusively reported that Sheinelle is in the running to replace main anchor Hoda, and join Craig and Savannah Guthrie on our screens.

“Now that she’s on her way out, there is a power vacuum already,” the insider told us.

 “She put out the email that she was quitting before she went on air and before the show even ended four people were waiting outside the EP’s door to try and get the job.”

The insider added that Sheinelle “is their first choice” as NBC execs would like a person of color for the spot.

She has been part of the show since 2014.

HODA’S EXIT

Last month The Sun U.S reported that execs are ‘begging’ Hoda to stay and ‘haven’t given up’ on keeping her.

A source told us that NBC higher-ups still think that they may be able to stop her from leaving.

“There are negotiations in the works with pleas for her to do one day a week like Barbara Walters once did on The View,” the source said.

Today execs are ‘begging’ Hoda Kotb to stay on show and ‘haven’t given up’ on keeping her despite exit announcement
“That’s why she’s been very vague about when she’s leaving and what she’s doing next. They’re still figuring it out.

“She wants to do prime-time specials like Diane Sawyer does for ABC.

“This isn’t the last we’ve seen of Hoda.”

FINDING LOVE

Meanwhile it has also been reported that Hoda will focus on love when she leaves Today.

HODA’S NBC LEGACY

Hoda’s illustrious career at NBC spans well over two decades.

Hoda joined the NBC network in 1998 as a correspondent for Dateline.

She became a standout once paired with Kathie Lee Gifford in the 10 am hour of Today in 2008.

During her time on the show, Hoda was open about her battle with breast cancer and her fertility struggles.

Fans of the show then watched as she adopted her two daughters; first in 2017 and then in 2019.

She was also vocal about her daughter, Hope’s, scary medical crisis.

Hoda continued in the fourth hour after Jenna Bush Hager replaced Kathie Lee.

She was then named an interim co-anchor along with Savannah after Matt Lauer’s firing from the network in late 2017.

Hoda and Savannah became the first female-led duo to co-anchor Today since its premiere in 1952.

A recent highlight of her time on Today was the previously mentioned birthday surprise.

Hoda’s co-anchors shocked her with an hour-long celebration in August honoring her 60th birthday.

The source said that Hoda, who broke off her engagement to her longtime fiance Joel Schiffman in 2022 after eight years of dating, wants another chance at love.

“She wants a boyfriend, she wants to be able to date, she wants to have that in her life,” the insider revealed.

She was last seen with a mystery man in March this year.

REAL REASON

The real reason that Hoda decided to leave is because she wants to focus on her family.

The TV star is mum to Hope, five, and Hayley, seven.

An insider explained: “You want to be there for your kids, and she’s just completely wiped by the time it gets around to after school.

“She loves these girls so much, and then when Hope was sick and hospitalized, everything changed for her with her views on work.”

Hoda Kotb’s farewell letter to staff

Longtime Today host Hoda Kotb penned the following letter to staff announcing her departure:

“To my Today family,

“As I write this, my heart is all over the map. I know I’m making the right decision, but it’s a painful one. And you all are the reason why. They say two things can be right at the same time, and I’m feeling that so deeply right now. I love you and it’s time for me to leave the show.

“My time at NBC has been the longest professional love affair of my life. But only because you’ve been beside me on this twenty-six-year adventure. Looking back, the math is nuts. 26 years at NBC News – Ten years at Dateline, seven on the seven o’clock hour, sixteen on the ten o’clock hour. I’m picturing your faces and your families and all the ways you’ve lifted me up and inspired me. That’s my heart singing. So many of my professional relationships have become some of my most cherished friendships. Savannah: my rock. Jenna: my ride-or-die. Al: my longest friend at 30 Rock. Craig, Carson, Sheinelle and Dylan: my family. Libby, Mazz and Talia: my fearless leaders. I will miss each and every one of you at TODAY desperately.

“I’ve been weighing this decision for quite a while – Am I truly ready? But, my sixtieth birthday celebration on the Plaza felt like a shift. Like a massive, joyful YES, you are! I saw it all so clearly: my broadcast career has been beyond meaningful, a new decade of my life lies ahead, and now my daughters and my mom need and deserve a bigger slice of my time pie. I will miss you all desperately, but I’m ready and excited.

“Because I’ll be working through the beginning of 2025, there’s plenty of time to talk about what’s ahead for all of us. But one thing I know for sure right now is this: everything’s going to be just fine. The Peacock’s feathers are never ruffled… no matter who comes or goes. TODAY and its amazing people — all of you — never waver. You always weather change with grace and guts.

“Happily and gratefully, I plan to remain a part of the NBC family, the longest work relationship I’ve been lucky enough to hold close to my heart. I’ll be around. How could I not? Family is family and you all will always be a part of mine.

“Love,

“Hoda”

SHOCK ANNOUNCEMENT

Hoda revealed the news on September 26.

She joined the show in 2018 after replacing Matt Lauer.

Hoda said in her statement: “So I was doing the math, and I realized I have spent 26 years at NBC – be cool, be cool.

 “I just turned 60, and it was such a monumental moment for me when I turned 60 years old…

“What does that decade mean?…And I realize it was time for me to turn the page at 60, and to try something new.”

TODAY Show hosts

NBC’s Today show premiered in 1952 and has bidden viewers good morning every weekday since, adding Saturday and Sunday shows in the 1980s and 1990s. The show’s current host lineup includes:

Hoda Kotb
Al Roker
Savannah Guthrie
Craig Melvin
Jenna Bush Hager
Carson Daly
Sheinelle Jones
Dylan Dreyer
Peter Alexander
Kristen Welker
Willie Geist

Today’s Dylan Dreyer blasts co-hosts for ‘bullying’ her about her ‘different’ on-air outfit during live show

TODAY’S Dylan Dreyer has called out her co-hosts for making comments about her slinky black dress on-air.

Dylan, 41, welcomed viewers to the show, mentioning it was “Fri-yay” during the opening moments.

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Today’s Dylan Dreyer welcomed viewers to the third hour of Today on FridayCredit: NBC

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She donned a very different dress from what she usually wears on the showCredit: NBC
She was clad in a sexy black dress with see-through mesh collar and sleeves.

Dylan paired her unique look with a sleek bob and light makeup.

Co-host Al Roker looked over at Dylan and said: “That dress is Fri-yay!”

Sheinelle Jones snapped her fingers and jokingly said “Dylan’s got a date tonight!”

 Dylan scoffed as she replied “You’re being nice now, ’cause you all just bullied me right before the show!”

Al insisted: “We did not!”

Sheinelle asked: “Do you wanna show America your dress?”

A clearly flustered Dylan said: “I dressed a little differently today.”

The other hosts insisted they “loved” her dress.

Al said: “It’s just that it’s different from what you normally wear! It’s next-level!”

Craig Melvin asked: “What did Sheinelle say to you?”

Sheinelle replied: “I said I look like I’m going to the mall and she’s going to prom!”

The entire table cracked up over the comment.

Dylan was left stunned and silent briefly before Craig commented.

“It’s a beautiful dress,” he said.

The hosts moved on and got the show underway while Dylan was clearly blushing from the attention.

‘SO MUCH FUN’

Meanwhile, Dylan appeared on a popular podcast with someone she calls her “new best friend,” and fans are loving it.

The meteorologist had a long conversation on the podcast Off the Beat with Brian Baumgartner — a beloved American actor known for his character of Kevin Malone in the hit television series The Office.

Dylan took to Instagram on Valentine’s Day to share a lengthy caption detailing her enjoyment of her time on Off the Beat.

“On this Valentine’s Day, I would like to dedicate this post to my new best friend @bbbaumgartner I had so much fun talking about all sorts of stuff on @offthebeat,” she wrote.

“Click the link in my bio to listen…and find out why he might very well think I’m someone else! Happy Valentine’s Day!!”

The Today co-host even added a snippet of the episode introduction written by the Off the Beat staff, where they also called Dylan and Brian “besties.”

“Brian’s newest bestie, NBC meteorologist and 3rd Hour of TODAY co-host Dylan Dreyer is on the podcast to teach Brian many things, like how to read a weather report, what Lake Effect Snow is, and her name (which maybe Brian had some trouble with when they first met),” it read.

Dylan also included three photos from her time on Off the Beat in the Instagram post.

The first included a side-by-side of Brian and Dylan with their headphones, smiling, alongside the title of the podcast and “EP. 58.”

The second included a quote from Dylan from the pair’s conversation that explained her fascination with the weather, giving fans more insight into why she does what she does.

“The science of how weather develops and why there are clouds and thunderstorms and hurricanes just makes so much sense in my brain[,] and I like being able to talk about it,” the meteorologist explained.

The third and final photo hilariously included a blurry image of Brian pinching his fingers near the camera, possibly to pretend-crush something he could see on-screen.

Fans flooded the comments section to support Dylan for making an appearance on Brian’s podcast.

“You go Dylan,” one person wrote.

“Fantastic Dylan,” another exclaimed.

Some even explained how they appreciated the meteorologist’s explanation for her career, as it could inspire a younger generation of female scientists.

“I love your quote, Dylan! I teach weather to middle school kids and hope to type it up and display it in my classroom. Female scientists represent!” a commenter noted.

Another fan had a sentimental and heartbreaking story about how Dylan even reminded them of a person in their personal life that had passed away.

“I think Brian is very lucky, I look forward to Dylan’s segment and she has a personality that just can’t be beat,” the user wrote.

“In a lot of ways she reminds me of my wife that I lost seven years ago to cancer. We were married four months short of sixty three years . Thank you Dylan 🌹.”

AL BETS ARE OFF

Al Roker has taken a swipe at Dylan Dreyer’s marriage on the Today show.

The beloved Today weatherman mocked the five-year age gap between Dylan, 41, and her husband Brian Fichera, 36.

Al let rip during a Third Hour segment with Dylan, Sheinelle Jones and show guest, Today’s digital editorial director Arianna Davis, on Monday.

The group was discussing Instagram captions they could use to celebrate their partners on Valentine’s Day.

They were shown a photo of Dylan with her producer husband Brian and their one-year-old son Rusty in a vineyard.

The suggested caption read: “Who needs flowers and chocolate when you’ve got wine.”

Al then turned to Dylan and quipped: “And the great thing about your relationship is that you’re an older vintage than Brian.”

Dylan looked taken aback and stared at him speechlessly, before saying: “Thank you, Al. Thank you for that.”

Arianna looked similarly dumbfounded and remarked: “Wow!”

Sheinelle tried to cover the awkward silence by saying, “Okay!” as Al moved on to the next topic.

Dylan couldn’t resist circling back, however, and said to him a few moments later: “Wait, you’re an older vintage!”

She was referring to the six-year age gap in Al’s marriage to Deborah Roberts, 62.

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As the other hosts commented on Dylan’s attire, she mentioned they had “bullied her” before the showCredit: NBC

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Her co-hosts joked and said her dress was different from her normal attireCredit: NBC

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Dylan was left blushing and clearly flustered by it all

SNL pokes fun at Colin Jost for making less than wife Scarlett Johansson – so what do they actually earn?

On the latest edition of Saturday Night Live, Colin Jost was ribbed by a fellow cast member over making far less money than his wife Scarlett Johansson.

Since last night’s show was hosted by Lady Gaga, a medieval character named Lord Gaga (played by Mikey Day) played the role of the singer’s fictional husband on Weekend Update.

After the clueless Lord Gaga was informed that his wife was a multi-millionaire pop star, he asked Jost offhandedly: ‘What does your wife do?’

It’s obvious that Johansson is the bread winner of the two, but it raises the question: how much do SNL stars actually make?

There is reportedly quite a range when it comes to the salaries given to SNL cast members, based largely on their seniority and level of fame.

Pete Davidson confirmed in December that in his first year on the sketch-comedy show, he made roughly $3,000 per episode.

Based on Davidson’s number, that would mean a cast member would earn between $54,000 to $66,000 per year for appearing in 18 to 22 episodes.

Second and third-year cast members could make $4,000 an episode, according to Celebrity Net Worth, which would be $84,000 for a typical 21-episode season.

Colin Jost interviews Lord Gaga (a character played by Mikey Day) on the latest edition of Saturday Night Live. The character, supposed to be Lady Gaga’s wife, raised the uncomfortable topic of the salary differential between Jost and his wife Scarlett Johannson

At the high end, Jost is making $525,000 for hosting Weekend Update, which pales in comparison to what Johansson made for Avengers: Endgame, a single movie

Fourth years could be raking in $7,000 per episode, working out to around $147,000 for a season.

After five years, that’s where the real money starts to hit. Cast members with this much time under their belt could be making up to $15,000 per episode. That’s about $315,000 total.

SNL is believed to cap salaries at $25,000 an episode ($525,000 total) for their biggest stars.

Jost, who was once a head writer on the show, has never revealed how much he makes as the co-host of Weekend Update. Still, many observers have speculated he’s reached that top tier salary due to his level of fame compared to others on the show.

But even if Jost is making that much, he’s nowhere close to Johansson, who made about $35 million from Avengers: Endgame, according to Forbes.

What is confirmed is that a stint on SNL does not mean a cast member has made his way out of the working class.

Jason Sudeikis, who was on SNL from 2005 to 2013, told New York Magazine last year that rent ate up a big portion of his paycheck in the early years.

‘I mean you don’t really make enough money to make big purchases,’ he explained. ‘So, I think New York rent was probably the biggest purchase I made after writing on SNL the first year.’

Pete Davidson and Jason Sudeikis both recently confessed that in the early stages of their career on SNL, they were not making much money

Current star James Austin Johnson revealed he used his first SNL paycheck to buy ‘the most uncomfortable West Elm couch of all time.’

‘I swear to God,’ he stressed. ‘It’s, like, made of bricks.’

Julia Louis-Dreyfus, who was a cast member on Saturday Night Live from 1982 to 1985, admitted to having a bit more fun with her first purchase.

‘[I] bought a pair of shoes that were out of [her] budget,’ she confessed, before noting that the shoes were only $75.

Sarah Silverman took home a nice $300 ‘cashmere sweater’ with her paycheck while Sarah Sherman invested in ‘a nice mattress.’

Cheri Oteri went with a practical purchase, a couch, which she’s has ‘reupholstered three or four times.’

Like Johnson and Oteri, Seth Meyers also invested in a ‘really big couch’ as well as a ‘really big TV.’

Bowen Yang, whose rumored salary for Wicked was $250,000, took home a designer pair of shoes with his first paycheck.

Yang admitted that he went straight to Saks Fifth Avenue to buy ‘a pair of Gucci shoes’ that he ‘wouldn’t feel super cool wearing out now.’

Morgan Wallen Abruptly Walks Off ‘SNL’ Stage Before Show’s End, Posts Cryptic Message from Airplane

The country star appeared as the show’s musical guest on March 29.

SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE — Episode 1879 — Pictured: Musical guest Morgan Wallen, host Mikey Madison, and Chloe Fineman during Promos in Studio 8H on Thursday, March 27, 2025 Rosalind O’Connor/NBC via Getty Images

Morgan Wallen has left the building.

The 31-year-old country star appeared as the musical guest on Saturday Night Live on March 29, alongside host Mikey Madison, who won best actress for her role in Anora at the 2025 Oscars.

After performing a pair of songs from his forthcoming album, I’m the Problem, Wallen briefly joined the SNL cast at the end of the show, as is customary on the long-running sketch comedy series. He then whispered something into Madison’s ear, gave her a hug and abruptly walked off the stage at Studio 8H.

Soon after the incident, Wallen shared a photo on his Instagram Stories from his private plane, with the caption “Get me to God’s country” written over an image of the runway.

Billboard has reached out to Wallen’s representative for comment.

During his March 29 appearance on SNL, Wallen performed the title track from his upcoming album and later delivered the post-heartbreak anthem “Just in Case.” I’m the Problem is set for release on May 16.

The incident sparked mixed reactions on social media, with some criticizing Wallen’s actions on the show as rude. “Wow, Morgan Wallen just walking off the stage during the @nbcsnl credits? In decades of watching SNL, I don’t think I’ve ever seen that. For so many of us, that is sacred ground. What an a——,” one user posted on X. Another remarked that the artist’s behavior “couldn’t be more lame & undercutting coming from a country star.”

Morgan Wallen’s Instagram Stories post after his ‘SNL’ gig.

Morgan Wallen/Instagram

Other observers expressed support for the “Last Night” hitmaker. One X user commented that there’s “something SO pleasing about seeing Morgan Wallen storm off stage during goodnights. Don’t let the door hit ya!!!!!!!!!!” Another person added, “If you go back and watch the clips of Mikey with Morgan and Chloe from midweek (the hi I’m Mikey Madison and I’m hosting SNL this week with Morgan Wallen clips) you’ll see he didn’t want to shoot those either, and probably only did SNL cause his manager and agent made him.”

The singer-songwriter previously appeared on SNL in December 2020, performing “7 Summers” and “Still Goin Down” from Dangerous: The Double Album, which spent 10 weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard 200.

Wallen was originally scheduled to appear two months prior but was replaced at the last minute for breaking SNL‘s strict COVID-19 safety protocols at the time. During his debut appearance, Wallen also appeared in a sketch poking fun at the controversy surrounding him when he was photographed partying and not wearing a mask in Alabama.

This week’s SNL episode follows Lady Gaga’s appearance on March 8, where she performed double duty as both host and musical guest. Past season 50 musical guests have included Tate McRae, GloRilla, Hozier, Gracie Abrams, Shaboozey, Chappell Roan and Billie Eilish, among others.

In the upcoming weeks, Lizzo, Elton John, and Brandi Carlile are set to perform on episodes hosted by Jon Hamm and Jack Black.

Vanna White Reveals Candid ‘Wheel of Fortune’ Confession About Contestant Bloopers

Wheel of Fortune‘s Vanna White revealed what contestant bloopers have made her laugh throughout her decades-long job as the letter-turner.

In a new interview with People on Monday, January 6, in honor of the game show’s 50th anniversary, White, 67, acknowledged that she felt “for our contestants because they’re so nervous.” However, that doesn’t mean she hasn’t laughed over a few contestant’s responses over the years.

“But I do chuckle on the inside at some of the wrong answers,” White said. “Half of the time I don’t think they even realize what they’re saying. Like the time the answer was ‘More Fun Than a Barrel of Monkeys,’ and the contestant guessed, ‘More Fun Than a Barrel of Vikings!’”

“There was the guy who thought it was a ‘Styrofoam Hat’ instead of ‘Styrofoam Cup,’” she added. “And then there was a famous one where the answer was ‘Gone With the Wind,’ and the answer the contestant gave was ‘Done With One Hand.’”

During the interview, White yubi also shared another mistake that a contestant has made while trying to solve the puzzles. “We had a puzzle where the answer was ‘Streetcar Named Desire,’” she said. “And only the ‘m’ was missing. The contestant answered, ‘Streetcar Naked Desire!’”

 

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Bài viết do Ryan Seacrest (@ryanseacrest) chia sẻ

White joined the show in 1982 and has been turning the letters since. Pat Sajak, the show’s longtime host (since 1981), left the game show in June 2024. Since then, Ryan Seacrest has taken over the Wheel of Fortune hosting duties.

“Finally, to my professional other half, dear Vanna,” Sajak said in a sweet tribute to her during his final episode. “Like me, she takes the show very seriously but not herself. I shudder to think what these 40 years might have been like had they brought someone in all full of themselves, playing the prima donna role.”

“She’s a very special woman and I know you’re all pleased to know she’ll be back next season,” he added.

According to Us Weekly, White’s Wheel of Fortune contract is set until at least 2026, as she signed the deal in 2023.

Wheel of Fortune: Is Pat Sajak’s daughter Maggie Sajak set to replace Vanna White?

Pat Sajak’s retirement from Wheel of Fortune after an impressive 41 seasons signaled the end of an era, sparking discussions about the show’s future. With Ryan Seacrest set to take over as host, the spotlight has shifted to Vanna White, a cherished fixture on the show since 1982.

AP

The retirement of Pat Sajak from Wheel of Fortune after 41 seasons marked the end of an era, leaving fans to speculate about the show’s future. With Ryan Seacrest stepping in as host, attention has turned to Vanna White, who has been part of the beloved game show since 1982.

Rumors about her potential departure have gained traction, yubi fueled by her comments about Maggie Sajak, Pat’s daughter, as a “good replacement”, as mentioned in a report by Collider.

In a recent interview with E! News, White shared her confidence in Maggie’s abilities, saying, “She’s been around it her whole life, so I think she can fill in for me for sure.”

Maggie has already proven her capability, stepping in for Vanna during a Celebrity Wheel of Fortune episode in May 2023.

Will Vanna White Leave Soon?

As co-host alongside Pat Sajak for over four decades, White’s role on Wheel of Fortune has been pivotal. Their dynamic partnership became a hallmark of the show, making Pat’s retirement announcement a significant turning point.

This change naturally led to speculation about Vanna’s own plans.

In 2023, Vanna negotiated a long-overdue salary increase after reports surfaced that she hadn’t received a raise in 18 years.

Sony Pictures Television announced on September 19 that she had finalized a two-year contract extension, ensuring her presence through the 2025-26 season.

The deal reportedly included a “substantial pay increase,” signaling her commitment to the show for the foreseeable future.

Despite the contract extension, fans wonder if Maggie Sajak’s growing involvement with the show signals a gradual transition.

Maggie Sajak: The Rising Star

Currently serving as Wheel of Fortune’s social media correspondent, Maggie Sajak has steadily become a familiar face for viewers. Her role as a puzzle board operator during Vanna’s appearance on Celebrity Wheel of Fortune demonstrated her capability in stepping into her father’s and Vanna’s shoes.

Maggie’s bond with Vanna and her father has been evident, with Vanna publicly praising her.

“She’s precious, she’s beautiful, she’s very good,” White said, adding that Maggie has likely inherited her father’s knack for engaging with audiences, as mentioned in a report by Collider.

Maggie’s potential as a host has sparked discussions about her future on the show.

What Lies Ahead for Wheel of Fortune

For now, Vanna White remains a cornerstone of Wheel of Fortune, with her contract ensuring stability as the show transitions into its next chapter.

However, Maggie Sajak’s involvement hints at the possibility of a new era, keeping the legacy within the Sajak family.

Fans will be watching closely as the dynamic unfolds. New episodes of Season 42 air nightly on ABC, with streaming available on YouTube TV in the U.S.

Whether as a social correspondent or future co-host, Maggie Sajak’s growing presence suggests she may be the key to carrying the show’s legacy forward.

FAQs:

What is the point of Wheel of Fortune?
In Wheel of Fortune, contestants solve word puzzles reminiscent of hangman to win cash and prizes determined by spinning a giant carnival wheel. The current syndicated version of the show debuted on September 19, 1983, and continues to air nightly.

Which Wheel of Fortune host passed away?
Chuck Woolery, the charismatic and smooth-talking game show host known for his roles on Wheel of Fortune, Love Connection, and Scrabble, has passed away at the age of 83. In recent years, Woolery became a right-wing podcaster, frequently criticizing liberals and claiming the government had misled the public about COVID-19.

Vanna White Was “Very Scared” of Whether She and Ryan Seacrest Would Have Chemistry on ‘Wheel of Fortune’

“I had no idea what to expect when I’m used to one person for so long,” White said.

Vanna White and Ryan Seacrest Phillip Faraone/Getty Images for CBS Media Ventures / Sony Pictures Television

Vanna White is reflecting on teaming with Ryan Seacrest on Wheel of Fortune after Pat Sajak‘s retirement.

In an interview with CBS Sunday Mornings, the longtime game show staple admitted she felt “scared” amid Seacrest’s hosting given she worked with Sajak for so long. White and Sajak had hosted the syndicated Wheel of Fortune since its debut in 1983 and are recognized as the longest-running game show hosts in American TV history.

“I think our chemistry is good,” White said of now working with Seacrest. “I had no idea what to expect when I’m used to one person for so long. I was very scared, but he’s doing a great job.”

“I’ve known Ryan for probably 20 years,” White said. “But in the past couple of months, we’ve done some traveling together for the show, and we got to know each other a little better, too.”

Sajak announced in June 2023 that he was leaving Wheel of Fortune after hosting the game show for 41 seasons.

“Well, the time has come. I’ve decided that our 41st season, which begins in September, will be my last,” Sajak wrote in a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter) at the time. “It’s been a wonderful ride, and I’ll have more to say in the coming months. Many thanks to you all. (If nothing else, it’ll keep the clickbait sites busy!)”

Seacrest was announced as Sajak’s replacement, also signing a multiyear deal to host the long-running show.

“I’m truly humbled to be stepping into the footsteps of the legendary Pat Sajak. I can say, along with the rest of America, that it’s been a privilege and pure joy to watch Pat and Vanna on our television screens for an unprecedented 40 years, making us smile every night and feel right at home with them,” Seacrest said in a statement after the announcement.

The radio personality added, “Pat, I love the way you’ve always celebrated the contestants and made viewers at home feel at ease. I look forward to learning everything I can from you during this transition … I can’t wait to continue the tradition of spinning the wheel and working alongside the great Vanna White.”

Meanwhile, White signed a two-year contract extension to continue as co-host of the syndicated game show through the 2025-26 season.

Wheel of Fortune star Vanna White has made a surprising admission about her home life – and she didn’t mince words.

White recently appeared on The Drew Barrymore Show with her son, Nikko Santo Pietro, a professional chef who went viral last year for his good looks after he appeared in a video with her on Instagram.

The mother-son duo took to the talk show to make a fire-roasted salsa with Drew as they got to talking about Nikko’s love for cooking, and how he was inspired by his father’s Los Angeles restaurant, Santopietro’s.

Unfortunately, the restaurant, owned by Vanna’s ex-husband George Santo Pietro, closed a number of years ago, but it had a major impact on Nikko’s life.

‘Those garlic knots, the meatballs, the pizza, I mean, the best food, he still makes it,’ Nikko told Drew.

‘It was a hotspot in L.A. at the time for sure,’ he added.

The talk show host then turned to Vanna to ask about her own culinary skills, to which she gave quite the answer.

‘And do you cook in the kitchen?’ Drew asked Vanna.

Wheel of Fortune star Vanna White has made a surprising admission about her home life – and she didn’t mince words

White recently appeared on The Drew Barrymore Show with her son, Nikko Santo Pietro, a professional chef who went viral last year for his good looks after he appeared in a video with her on Instagram

The talk show host then turned to Vanna to ask about her own culinary skills, to which she gave quite the answer

‘No,’ she responded with a smile. ‘Why should I?’

Thankfully, however, her son is a great cook, as she shared that he makes great chicken and fish.

‘He’s been in the kitchen his whole life,’ Vanna said of her son.

‘His dad was an amazing cook, so he learned from his Dad, and he’s had it for 30 years now,’ she continued.

The two of them seemed quite comfortable on camera together, as they often take to social media to post adorable videos working together in the kitchen, or even answering questions from fans.

After a video of them went viral in December, Nikko responded to his newfound ‘heartthrob’ status by calling it ‘flattering.’

‘Of course, it’s flattering, and she turned to me and said, ‘Is it this what viral means?” Nikko said of his famous mom, as they sat down for an interview together with Entertainment Tonight. 

‘Obviously I’ve had an outpour from her fans, just really being kind and saying all kinds of interesting stuff in the comments.’

The two of them seemed quite comfortable on camera together, as they often take to social media to post adorable videos working together in the kitchen, or even answering questions from fans

After a video of them went viral in December, Nikko responded to his newfound ‘heartthrob’ status by calling it ‘flattering’

But at the end of the day, all of the recent attention doesn’t seem to bother Nikko very much.

In fact, it’s actually something that he embraces.

‘I always loved being in front of the camera, and I work really hard on my social media, and that’s a big part of what I do, so it feels natural and good,’ Nikko explained, as he often is posting videos for his real estate business on his Instagram page.

‘I think a lot of it too, people see me as this heartthrob and they’re thirsty for me and all this stuff, and it’s just really, I love it all, but it’s really good to remember the meaningful things in life and to just kind of dial it back,’ he continued.

‘Doing a lot of charity work, working hard every day, that’s what it is to me, just making an impact.’

In response, gameshow icon Vanna admitted that his commitment to giving back ‘touches [her] heart so much.’

Allison Janney Says It’s “Very Odd” Working on Mom Without Anna Faris

In a chat with Ellen DeGeneres, Allison Janney revealed what it’s been like filming without Anna Faris on Mom.

Anna Faris may be gone from Mom, but she hasn’t been forgotten.

On Tuesday, Feb. 16’s all-new The Ellen DeGeneres Show, Allison Janney revealed what it’s been like filming the CBS comedy without her longtime co-star. While catching up with host Ellen DeGeneres, Janney made it clear that Faris has been missed during season eight.

“Yeah, it was very odd and she’s very missed,” the Oscar winner relayed. “Anna is missed and her character on the show is missed.”

However, as Janney told DeGeneres, the Mom family fully supports Faris’ decision to explore other opportunities. She added, “We’re just happy that she’s doing what she wants to do now, and we’re happy even more so that we’re able to still tell these stories about these great women in recovery and I think there are some really wonderful characters that have been established. And people love the show so, we’re gonna keep telling the stories as long as we can.”

As E! News readers well know, season eight of Mom marked the first season to not star Faris, who led the series opposite Janney between 2013 and 2020. Back in September, Faris revealed that she was leaving the Chuck Lorre-created comedy in order to pursue other projects.

“The past seven years on Mom have been some of the most fulfilling and rewarding of my career,” she said at the time. “I’m so thankful to [Chuck Lorre], the writers, and my amazing castmates for creating a truly wonderful work experience. While my journey as Christy has come to an end, allowing me to pursue new opportunities, I’ll be watching next season and rooting for my TV family.”

Monty Brinton/CBS via Getty Images

Currently, Faris hosts the Unqualified podcast. As for Mom, the show also stars Mimi Kennedy, Jaime Pressly, Beth Hall, William Fichtner and Kristen Johnston. Not to mention, the show is currently up for three awards at the 26th annual Critics Choice Awards, including Best Comedy Series, Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series (for Fichtner) and Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series (for Pressly).

On Mom‘s three nominations, Janney said to DeGeneres, “The network shows tend to get pushed aside because there’s so many great shows on all the other, you know. So, to get a nom in our eighth season and for Bill Fichtner and Jaime Pressly to get recognized, they’re so wonderful and I’m really proud.”

Catch Janney’s full interview below.

Mom airs Thursdays at 9 p.m. on CBS.