‘Wheel Of Fortune’ Fans Will Become ‘Comfortable’ With New Set
Wheel of Fortune fans will become “comfortable” with the new set, according to production designer, James Pearse Connelly. Viewers have not taken kindly to the way that it looks. Some have even referred to it as a “migraine” of sorts. So, what was the inspiration and why does James have such confidence in it? Keep reading for more details.
Wheel Of Fortune Fans Will Become ‘Comfortable’ With New Set
When Ryan Seacrest took over on Wheel of Fortune for Pat Sajak in Season 42, fans were skeptical. They had no idea how he would fare or if he would be right for the part. Though Pat had become a little rude and crotchety, they were still so used to his antics and hosting style. At the same time, Ryan had years of hosting experience so this was a no-brainer to put him in the hosting position. He began his run on September 9th, alongside Vanna White and viewers were pleasantly surprised.
He had an amazing personality, engaged with the contestants, and brought in stellar ratings. That was what the network had hoped to see but one thing viewers did not care for was the new, updated set. It was to be expected but there was something about the lighting that was incredibly offputting:
- The set is a migraine waiting to happen. I honestly had to stop looking because it hurt my eyes too much. Did you run that set by anyone??? Wheel is now inaccessible.
- pls what is this set
- He did great! But that set is dizzying and distracting and just awful.
- Big NO to the new set.
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Many felt it was too busy and doing too much. According to People, the production designer, James Pearse Connelly, understands people are hesitant to accept it:
“Everybody’s reluctant to change. That’s just normal. You kind of prepare for that in a way, and when it was brought up to me that this would happen, and that the fanbase is so loyal to the show — that’s natural.”
However, he thinks that, despite the changes, it will become “comfortable”:
“Yes, we made changes, we updated it — but it’s ultimately for the best. It’s about setting up a new space that fixes problems, prepares for the future and makes people feel comfortable.”
Ryan Loved It
When Ryan Seacrest saw the new and improved Wheel of Fortune set, he liked it a lot. That was huge for James Pearse Connelly, who appreciated the compliment:
“I think he was really touched to see it at first, and I think that he was really impressed.”
He shared that he blended a bunch of eras to create the set. Yet, the letterboard is somewhat of a nod to the 1970s:
“There are so many capabilities in this set that it’s never had before because we thought about different theme weeks, different capabilities for lighting and more video technology. It’s really exciting.”
Now that this is complete, James has moved on to designing the RHOC set for the upcoming Season 18 reunion. Hopefully, viewers will be more receptive to that than this one.
Have you adapted more to the Wheel of Fortune set or are you still struggling? Let us know in the comments below.
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The show will never be the same without Pat.
As far as the set, it’s way too busy and loud and I don’t like it, it’s very distracting. Change isn’t always good.
i didn’t think I’d like Ryan but to my surprise I really do! As for the new set, not so much. I agree with the person who described it as a migraine. I truly find it difficult to look at. Way too busy. Loving the show and though I loved Pat I am enjoying Ryan very much.