Wheel of Fortune host Ryan Seacrest's attempt to recreate a British cheese-rolling tradition led to an unexpected turn of events during a recent episode.
According to Daily Mail, the 50-year-old host faceplanted on the studio floor while chasing after a Wheel of Fortune-branded wheel rolled by co-host Vanna White during a segment about the Gloucester Cheese Rolling Festival.
The incident occurred during last week's "Festivals and Celebrations" themed episode when Seacrest expressed his newfound enthusiasm for the unique British tradition. He eagerly participated in a staged recreation of the festival, diving dramatically after a prop wheel rolled across the stage by White.
The segment began with Seacrest sharing his fascination with the Cooper's Hill Cheese-Rolling and Wake, a centuries-old tradition dating back to 1826. The historic festival features participants racing down a 200-yard hill in pursuit of a Double Gloucester cheese wheel.
White presented Seacrest with a branded Wheel of Fortune wheel as footage of the actual festival played in the background. The moment quickly turned memorable when Seacrest declared his readiness for the challenge.
The studio audience watched in amazement as their new host sprinted across the stage and executed a dramatic dive, proving his commitment to entertainment.
RobCorley95's comment captured the general sentiment of surprise and amusement, questioning who knew Seacrest could run so fast for cheese. Other viewers quickly took to social media to express their appreciation for the host's dedication to entertainment.
Fans praised Seacrest's willingness to fully commit to the bit, with multiple comments highlighting his enthusiasm. The Wheel of Fortune Instagram account shared additional footage of the sprint, giving viewers a better look at the memorable moment.
Seacrest received particular praise from viewer Karin Nilsson, who shared:
Ryan is wonderful. Wheel is where I've really learned and appreciated how awesome he is. Great choice!
The actual Gloucester Cheese Rolling Festival, officially known as Cooper's Hill Cheese-Rolling and Wake, involves more extreme elements than the studio recreation. Participants chase after a cheese wheel that can reach speeds of up to 80 miles per hour down the steep hill.
The competition's rules dictate that the cheese gets a head start, making it virtually impossible for runners to actually catch it. Instead, the first person to reach the bottom of the hill claims victory and the coveted cheese prize. This year's event is scheduled for Monday, May 26, continuing the spring bank holiday tradition that has captivated audiences for nearly two centuries.
The cheese-rolling segment represents Seacrest's continued efforts to make the iconic game show his own after taking over from longtime host Pat Sajak. Initial skepticism from viewers has largely given way to appreciation for his energetic hosting style. Despite the dramatic tumble, Seacrest returned triumphantly to White with the wheel in hand as the episode concluded. The incident demonstrated his willingness to fully commit to entertaining viewers, even at the risk of personal dignity.
What began as a simple segment about a unique British festival transformed into a memorable moment of American television, with Seacrest's enthusiasm and dedication to his new role on full display. The host's willingness to literally dive into new experiences has helped win over viewers who initially questioned his ability to fill Sajak's shoes.
