Season 5 of "Celebrity Wheel of Fortune" premiered on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, at 8 p.m. ET on ABC, marking the return of legendary host Pat Sajak after his retirement. Fans eagerly anticipated this moment, as Sajak, who had hosted the iconic game show since 1981, stepped back into the spotlight alongside co-host Vanna White.
In a series of sneak peek photos shared on Instagram a day before the premiere, Sajak, 78, was seen reuniting with White, 68, alongside celebrity contestants Matt Walsh, Joe Manganiello, and Tiffany Haddish. The emotional reunion was well-received by fans, many of whom expressed their excitement with the simple phrase, "Can't wait!" The Instagram post read, "A shiny new photo carousel to mark the shiny new episode of @celebritywheeloffortune premiering TOMORROW!"
"Celebrity Wheel of Fortune" offers a unique twist on the classic format, inviting celebrities to spin the wheel and solve word puzzles for a chance to win up to $1 million, all of which will be donated to charities of the contestants' choosing. During the premiere, Joe Manganiello played for the UPMC Children’s Hospital Foundation, Tiffany Haddish represented the She Ready Foundation, and Matt Walsh supported Open Books.
After announcing his retirement in June 2024, Sajak reflected on his time with the show, stating, "It was an honor to be part of a daily half-hour safe place for family fun. Every time we taped a show, I met three new people from all parts of this wonderful country and the world who were kind and considerate, who rooted for each other, who took great pride in talking about their family, their hometown, their friends, their schools, their jobs, even their pets. In the end, they were the real stars of this show. I genuinely like these people, and I'll miss the chance to meet more of them."
With Sajak's return, the show has attracted significant attention, especially given the high-profile celebrity lineup for Season 5. Other contestants include Rainn Wilson, Ellie Kemper, Oscar Nuñez, Josh Gad, Justin Long, Rachael Harris, Sam Richardson, Randall Park, Matt Walsh, Tiffany Haddish, Regina Hall, Katharine McPhee, Andrew Rannells, Pete Holmes, and Cameron Brink.
For viewers without cable, "Celebrity Wheel of Fortune" can be streamed through FuboTV, DirecTV Stream, and Hulu + Live TV, all of which offer free trials or promotional deals. FuboTV provides more than 100 channels, including sports, news, and entertainment, and offers DVR storage space. The service is priced at $84.99 per month, with promotional offers available for new users. DirecTV Stream also features over 75 live TV channels and on-demand content, starting at $86.99 per month. Sling TV is another option, allowing users to stream live and on-demand content over the internet, with various pricing plans and promotional offers.
The excitement surrounding the return of "Celebrity Wheel of Fortune" is palpable, as fans look forward to seeing their favorite celebrities compete for a good cause. The show's unique blend of entertainment and charity continues to resonate with audiences, making it a staple in American television.
The premiere episode featured a thrilling atmosphere, with contestants showcasing their skills while also bringing awareness to their chosen charities. As the celebrities spun the wheel and tackled word puzzles, viewers were reminded of the show's long-standing tradition of family-friendly fun.
As Season 5 unfolds, fans can expect more memorable moments, emotional reunions, and, of course, the chance to support various charitable organizations. The show's format remains fresh and engaging, ensuring that it appeals to both long-time viewers and new audiences alike.
In addition to the heartwarming competition, the return of Sajak and White has rekindled a sense of nostalgia for many fans who grew up watching the duo on the original "Wheel of Fortune." Their chemistry and camaraderie have been a significant part of the show's success over the years.
As the season progresses, viewers will undoubtedly be treated to more celebrity appearances, exciting gameplay, and the opportunity to witness the impact of the contestants' charitable contributions. With each episode, "Celebrity Wheel of Fortune" reinforces its commitment to giving back while providing entertaining content for its audience.
In a world where entertainment often competes with serious issues, the show stands out as a beacon of positivity and community spirit. As celebrities come together to support meaningful causes, they not only entertain but also inspire viewers to contribute to their communities.
With the first episode of Season 5 now behind us, fans are left eagerly anticipating what the rest of the season will bring. The combination of celebrity charm, charitable giving, and the beloved game show format makes "Celebrity Wheel of Fortune" a must-watch this season.
