'Wheel of Fortune' Fans Aren't Holding Back Their Thoughts About Major New Show Changes
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As Wheel of Fortune host Pat Sajak welcomed back fans to the new season of the game show, some folks at home weren’t thrilled after seeing the changes made during the show's hiatus.
On Monday night, the 74-year-old TV personality kicked off Wheel of Fortune with a smile and a quick announcement about the longtime show. “Can you believe this is season 39? It’s incredible,” he said at the top of the hour. “You’ll notice some changes in the studio. I thought I caught a glimpse of that [Jim] Thornton guy on the way out. A few little tweaks in the game, but it’s still Wheel of Fortune. We’re gonna have a great time. Let’s get to it.”
The Wheel of Fortune updates include a new colorful studio, more screen time for the show’s announcer Jim Thornton, upbeat music and gameplay changes. While the game show’s vibrant set and newly installed on-stage announcer podium was quickly accepted, the music and game rule edits were harder for a handful of fans to accept.
“This new music on #WheelOfFortune SUCKS,” one person wrote. “I don’t know about this music. Jim Thornton gave us the the finger guns on his first shot. No free space?! Complete Wheel anarchy. #WheelOfFortune,” another added. “I miss the old #WheelOfFortune quirks 😭😭😭😭😭😭 bring back the old sets and music!!!!” a different follower said.
Other viewers enjoyed the switch ups and some even pointed out that the new theme song is actually a modern rendition of what used to be played on Wheel of Fortune back in the day. According to Outsider, the tune “Changing Keys” was the show’s theme song for 17 years from 1983 to 2000, with a remixed version played in the late ‘90s.
“For those complaining about the new music this season on Wheel, give it time. Just like the last music package they had, it'll grow on you. For the record, I REALLY love 'Changing Keys '21'. Good on Wheel for bringing back that iconic theme! #WheelOfFortune,” a follower commented. “So happy #ChangingKeys is back and better than ever! 🎹,” someone else tweeted.
These updates, including Pat no longer spinning the final wheel, come on the heels of executive producer Mike Richards exiting Jeopardy! and Wheel of Fortune following several controversies. According to Deadline, Pat has added consulting producer to his responsibilities as part of a deal he struck to continue the show with Vanna White through 2024.
Speaking with his daughter and newly named social correspondent, Maggie Sajak, Pat admitted that he hoped viewers took the final spin change well. “I’m afraid, honestly, of a viewer revolt on this,” he said.
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