Ryan Seacrest made his debut as the new host of Wheel of Fortune on September 9, taking over from longtime host Pat Sajak. While many viewers were excited to see Seacrest in the role, opinions were mixed following his first episode, particularly after he failed to correct a contestant's significant mistake during a puzzle, leading to calls for his dismissal. Fans expressed disappointment over his performance, citing a lack of energy and personality compared to Sajak, and some felt he didn't adequately explain game rules to contestants. Despite the backlash, a portion of the audience praised Seacrest's hosting style, with some expressing optimism for his future on the show. The episode also introduced a revamped set and graphics, which further divided viewer opinions. The reaction to Seacrest's inaugural appearance indicates a challenging transition as the show enters a new era post-Sajak.