Maggie Sajak stunned in a red gown for a charity Wheel of Fortune game in May 2023.

In a stunning development that has Wheel of Fortune fans buzzing, insiders claim Ryan Seacrest’s future as host may be in jeopardy, and producers are already eyeing a familiar face to step in: Maggie Sajak, the daughter of longtime host Pat Sajak.

Ryan Seacrest, who took over in 2024 following Pat’s retirement after more than four decades, has only signed a two-year contract—and that limited commitment is reportedly raising eyebrows inside Sony Pictures Television. According to sources close to the show, execs are preparing contingency plans in case Seacrest decides to walk away after his current deal expires.

And one name keeps coming up in those internal conversations: Maggie Sajak.

Maggie in the Spotlight

While she’s best known to Wheel viewers as the show’s social media correspondent, Maggie’s connection to the franchise runs deep. At 29, she’s essentially grown up on the set and has become an increasingly visible and well-loved figure within the Wheel of Fortune community.

“She’s a super-valuable member of the Wheel family, especially during this time of transition,” one production insider told The U.S. Sun. “Her appreciation for the brand is genuine, and she’s positioned herself perfectly in case there’s a vacancy.”

In May 2023, Maggie stepped in to temporarily replace Vanna White, dazzling fans with her poise and charm. The move immediately sparked speculation that she could become a long-term presence on the show—either in Vanna’s role or beyond.

Even Vanna herself endorsed Maggie as a worthy successor. “She’s been around it her whole life,” Vanna said in a 2023 interview. “She’s precious, she’s beautiful, she’s very good. I think she learned a lot from her father.”

Seacrest’s Uncertain Commitment

Ryan Seacrest, here on the season 42 premiere in September 2024, took over Pat Sajak's longtime job

While Ryan Seacrest’s arrival brought a noticeable ratings boost and a jolt of fresh energy to the show, insiders say the uncertainty surrounding his contract is becoming a concern.

“Sony loves the ratings and wants to negotiate a much longer deal with Ryan,” the source explained. “But he hasn’t made any firm commitments beyond the original agreement. They have to be realistic and have backup plans.”

Given Seacrest’s busy career—spanning radio, television, producing, and hosting—it’s not unthinkable that he could choose to walk away if the job becomes too demanding or conflicts with other ventures.

And if that happens, Maggie Sajak may be the network’s ace in the hole.

A New Chapter for Maggie

Adding another layer to Maggie’s evolving career is the fact that she’s now a licensed attorney. After graduating from Georgetown University Law Center in 2023, she passed the California Bar in 2024. But rather than leave the entertainment world behind, she’s chosen to maintain her role on Wheel, balancing both legal aspirations and showbiz responsibilities.

“Thank you to everyone who supported me through this journey,” she wrote on Instagram after earning her law license. “Excited to do some good with this in the future.”

Despite her legal credentials, Maggie’s presence on the show has only grown, with fans regularly praising her professionalism, charisma, and behind-the-scenes content on platforms like TikTok and Instagram.

She may have begun as the daughter of a legendary host, but Maggie Sajak is now carving out her own path—and possibly stepping into one of television’s most iconic roles.

The Road Ahead

Maggie is still very close to dad Pat, who still serves as a consultant on the show

While nothing is confirmed, the idea of Maggie replacing Seacrest has divided fans. Some view it as a logical and sentimental choice, keeping the Sajak legacy alive. Others wonder if she’s ready to take on such a high-profile role so quickly.

Regardless of public opinion, the one thing insiders agree on is this: Maggie is being seriously considered as part of the show’s long-term plan.

“She’s not just a backup,” the source insisted. “She’s part of the future.”

As Wheel of Fortune continues its post-Pat evolution, and with Vanna White also approaching the twilight of her tenure, the iconic show may be gearing up for a generational shift—with Maggie Sajak standing at the center.

 

Whether Seacrest stays or goes, one thing is clear: change is in the air, and Wheel of Fortune may be spinning toward one of its biggest hosting shakeups yet.