RY_N SE_CREST officially took over the helm of “Wheel of Fortune” on September 9, ushering in a new era for the iconic game show.

We’re of course talking about Ryan Seacrest, who had huge shoes to fill, as he became the show’s co-host alongside Vanna White after Pat Sajak left the program last June.

In his opening speech as the game show’s new host, Seacrest began his first episode with a special message to loyal viewers.

“Welcome to ‘Wheel of Fortune.’ I’m your host, Ryan Seacrest. I still can’t believe how lucky I am to be here with you tonight to continue the legacy of this incredible show with all of you, and of course my dear friend Vanna White,” Seacrest said. “Thank you for the warm welcome. Hosting ‘Wheel of Fortune’ is a dream job.”

“I’ve been a fan of this show since I was a kid, watching it in Atlanta with my family, and I know how special it is that ‘Wheel’ has been in your living rooms for 40 years,” he continued. “And I’m just so grateful to have been invited. I also know that I have some really big shoes to fill. So let’s play ‘Wheel of Fortune.'”

This season marks the 42nd for “Wheel of Fortune,” and while the appearance of Seacrest in place of Sajak will be the most noticeable and explored change, the show promises to have plenty of fun to keep viewers glued to their TV sets.

Seacrest is proud to be part of a show that has become an institution in homes across the country, taking over from Sajak, who won his first Emmy Award for hosting the show on September 8.

“If ‘Wheel of Fortune’ is offered to you, you just don’t say no. You just don’t say no. You’re going to have bad karma for the rest of your TV life, I promise you,” he told E! News earlier this month.

“This is such a part of American culture. I think this show has so much meaning for people who watch it regularly,” he added.

In July, Seacrest gave fans a sneak peek at what his new gig was like when he posted a video on Instagram from his first day on “Wheel of Fortune.”

“A glimpse into my first day at @wheeloffortune and I’m still spinning with excitement!” he captioned the clip.

Sajak will continue to host the primetime series of “Celebrity Wheel of Fortune” after announcing in June 2023 that this past season would be his last on “Wheel of Fortune.” That same month, Seacrest was tapped to replace him, and he spoke highly of his predecessor.

“Your dedication, charm and humor have made the show a beloved part of American television for decades,” he wrote, in part, on Instagram. “Your partnership with Vanna has been nothing short of iconic, and together you have created countless wonderful memories for viewers. You have set the standard for presenters everywhere, and this marks the end of an era.”

The season premiere of “Wheel of Fortune” aired on September 9. Watch local coverage.