Wheel of Fortune fans 'dizzy and overwhelmed' by change they were 'afraid would happen' when Pat left

Wheel of Fortune fans are having reservations about the new season so far.

The puzzle game show returned for Season 42 with new host Ryan Seacrest and veteran letter turner Vanna White. Ryan took over for long time host Pat Sajak. Pat initially announced he was retiring in June 2023 and that same month the American Idol host was announced as his replacement. Season 41 was the last season for the 77-year-old game show host and his last episode was on June 7.

There has been both anticipation and dread over what the new season was going to look like when Ryan made his debut on September 9. As the show returned, there have been various new changes such as a noticeably different set, new stage entrance, and new prizes.

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Since the show's return, fans have taken to social media to complain about some of the new changes. One fan in particular started a thread on a Wheel of Fortune subreddit on September 11 about how the new changes like the set has the show feeling "over the top" with Ryan talking the helm.

They wrote, prompting discussion: "Does anyone besides me feel like the entire new WoF is just over the top? From the set, to the contestants outfits, and even the contestants behavior. Especially the male contestant tonight. To me, it's almost like they are actors. It feels unnaturally 'extra'.

Others took to the comments to agree that they are feeling the same way. One fan wrote in a lengthy response: "Yes for sure. I was afraid this would happen after Pat retired. Wheel of Fortune is following the trend of overproduction and fake emotion."

They continued saying that Wednesday episode made one feel "dizzy and overwhelmed" due to the "cuts and noises from contestant." They added that it was hard to follow the puzzle and how they prefer "authentic emotions" even if the ratings "don't support" that. They ended their message stating that "snoozefest contestants" aren't wanted "but authenticity is nice."

A second fan said: "Came here to see if anyone mentioned this. It seems like a fake game show. It’s like an episode of Black Mirror. I’m not going to continue watching of it keeps like this." Another said: "I'm okay with Ryan, he's no Pat but I think he's doing a pretty good job and will probably get better as time goes on. But the set, the contestants, the more in-your-face sponsorships (LG and Kombucha) the dumb split screens for the toss ups, the glare on the wheel... I hate all of that."