The game show Wheel of Fortune gave fans a brief glimpse into its future without former host Pat Sajak—who last year announced that he would retire as host at the end of the show's 41st season—after using actor Jared Leto as a surprise host for a bizarre April Fools' Day prank.
Actor Jared Leto surprised fans when he stepped into the role of host on the popular game show on Monday night, with the announcer proclaiming:
"Here are the stars of our show, Jared Leto and Vanna White!"
With little fanfare, Leto appeared alongside regular co-host Vanna White, walking arm in arm onto the set.
In true Wheel of Fortune fashion, Leto smoothly transitioned into hosting duties, instructing contestants to prepare for the game:
"All right everybody, grab those devices, it's time to give away some money," he told the three contestants. "A $1000 in our first toss-up, the category is on the map."
The show then continued on as normal, cutting back to regular host Sajak as if nothing had happened. Leto's appearance was never addressed further in the episode.
You can watch the moment in the video below.
A Surprise Host! | S41 | Wheel of Fortuneyoutu.be
At least one fan of the show could not hide their surprise.
And people loved the show's cheeky April Fools' Day joke.
As news of Leto's hosting stint spread, representatives for Wheel of Fortune and Leto offered no immediate comment on his appearance.
News outlets reported last year that television presenter Ryan Seacrest will take over from Sajak as of September 2024. White will remain on the program and has a new deal for the 2024-2025 season.
Seacrest has said he is "very excited" to work with White, who has been the Wheel of Fortune co-host since 1982 and has appeared as a version of herself in many film and television appearances.
