"Wheel of Fortune” Lights Up Santa Monica Pier with New Host Ryan Seacrest and Vanna White

Santa Monica, CA — The iconic Santa Monica Pier was buzzing with excitement tonight, Friday, August 30, 2024, as "Wheel of Fortune" fans gathered to celebrate the upcoming season of America’s favorite game show. The event marked the official start of a new era, featuring the show’s fresh host, Ryan Seacrest, alongside longtime co-host Vanna White.

The Pacific Park Ferris wheel, known as the world’s first solar-powered Ferris wheel, was transformed into a giant "Wheel of Fortune," lighting up the night with a dynamic display of over 174,000 energy-efficient LED lights. This unique spectacle drew fans from across Southern California, eager to witness the launch of the show's new chapter.

Ryan Seacrest and Vanna White greeted fans, posed for photos, and shared in the excitement as they kicked off the celebration. Vanna White took the first spin of the 85-foot Ferris wheel, which had been specially adorned to resemble the famous game show's wheel. The crowd cheered as fans were invited to try their luck spinning a giant version of the "Wheel of Fortune" set up on the pier.

Pat Sajak, who stepped down from his hosting duties last spring, was notably absent, but his spirit was felt throughout the evening as the crowd welcomed Seacrest to his new role. Attendees left with free "Wheel of Fortune" T-shirts and smiles as bright as the Ferris wheel lights.

Pacific Park, the West Coast's only amusement park located on a pier, provided the perfect backdrop for the event, combining the thrill of its 12 rides, including the iconic West Coaster, with the excitement of the game show celebration. As the sun set over the Pacific, the pier became a beacon of light and laughter, heralding the next chapter in "Wheel of Fortune's" storied history.

The new season of "Wheel of Fortune," with Seacrest and White at the helm, promises to bring fresh energy and entertainment to fans across the nation. As tonight's event proved, the wheel keeps turning — and so does the love for this beloved game show.

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Fabian Lewkowicz, an award-winning accredited photojournalist and press photographer based in Santa Monica, is renowned for his captivating imagery and storytelling. As the creator of Santa Monica Closeup, he draws on years of experience with local media outlets like the Santa Monica Daily Press and The Corsair to capture iconic moments in the city's history.

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