Is the revamped *Wheel of Fortune* really “awful” now? Fans of this iconic show are passively protesting with their remotes in hand as they tune in to the newly refreshed version of this classic game show. As it kicked off its latest season on ABC, it debuted a new look that’s got die-hard fans scratching their heads—if not spitting their coffee in disgust!
With the legendary Pat Sajak hanging up his hosting hat after 41 glorious seasons, the pressure is on the new co-hosts: the irreplaceable Vanna White, who’s got decades of charm and charisma, and… Ryan Seacrest? Yup, you heard that right. And while Vanna continues to earn her applause, it’s Seacrest who’s getting the side-eye from viewers.
As fans begin to weigh in on this makeover, it’s clear they aren’t pointing fingers at Vanna. The new set, with its flashing lights and a punchy blue backdrop, seems to have sent some viewers into a tailspin of nostalgia—and not the good kind. Why does change sting so much? Maybe it’s because everyone is still processing the mammoth transition that comes with losing a television institution like Pat Sajak.
In short, do we miss the simplicity of yesteryears? Why does “different” often feel “wrong”? With vibrant colors, a fresh set design, and new dynamics, the show invites us to consider: Are our hearts unwilling to pivot, or is the new *Wheel of Fortune* deserving of a proper chance? Let’s put it this way: it might take a bit of time, but maybe—just maybe—we’ll learn to appreciate this newly revamped classic.
In addition to the new hosts, ABC debuted Wheel of Fortune‘s brand new set. Many parts of the set have flashy lights, vibrant blue backgrounds, green panels, and more.
However, viewers who got an eyeful of the new set seemed disappointed or even repulsed by the revamp.
From the walls to the puzzle board, they’re not liking what they’re seeing.
The old puzzle board was a simple black backdrop with a frame of green (specifically, turquoise) lights. The board now has a gold frame along with green accents.
Is ‘Wheel of Fortune’ really awful now?
To be fair, the Wheel of Fortune puzzle board has gone through numerous looks over the years. It has had even more obnoxious gold framing than it does now.
However, we should note that what worked on television in the ’90s doesn’t necessarily work in 2024. We don’t just mean all-white casts, but visual elements.
Televisions are vastly better than they were in the 1990s. It’s possible that the current iteration of the show is too visually intense for viewers — especially on a show where the audience tends to be a little older.
However, we have to point out that many people are resistant to change. A simple UI change on social media can have users logging in and saying “this is not my beautiful wife.”
Additionally, people seem to be still processing the absence of Pat Sajak. The man himself became an institution after decades on the show. So, yes, it’s an adjustment.
Adapting to change — even neutral change — can be a challenge. Blue and green lighting, puzzle piece shapes, gears and more are just different. Even if they are worse than the old look, people will grow accustomed to it.
How do people like the new hosts?
Vanna White is widely beloved. Like Pat Sajak, she spent decades on Wheel of Fortune. Over the years, she became a household name, even negotiating for better pay — and now her co-hosting gig.
Meanwhile, Ryan Seacrest is also a household name. While he’s not exactly universally beloved (with good reason), he’s certainly a familiar face on television.
It’s easy to make snap judgments about the set. It could take weeks, or more, before viewers reach a consensus on the hosting situation. In that time, perhaps the blue and green lights will stop feeling so “new.”
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