Ryan Seacrest and Vanna White have developed a secret pre-show ritual on Wheel of Fortune, but what does their mysterious handshake really mean? As Seacrest steps into Pat Sajak’s shoes, his bond with White is growing, and their evolving handshake is a sign of their strengthening partnership. Fans are loving their chemistry, and many are offering suggestions to make the handshake even more iconic. Let’s dive into the story behind this fun tradition!

Ryan Seacrest and Vanna White’s Growing On-Screen Chemistry
Ryan Seacrest has effortlessly stepped into his new role as the host of Wheel of Fortune, taking over for the legendary Pat Sajak. While longtime fans were initially curious about how Seacrest would mesh with the show’s iconic co-host, Vanna White, their on-screen chemistry has quickly won people over.
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One way Seacrest and White have been building their rapport is through a fun and unique pre-show handshake. This ritual, which they have been refining over time, serves as a playful bonding moment before stepping onto the stage. It’s not just a handshake—it’s a symbol of their growing camaraderie and commitment to bringing fresh energy to the beloved game show.

The Evolution of Their Secret Handshake
On March 6, White, Seacrest, and the Wheel of Fortune official Instagram page posted a video revealing the hosts’ secret handshake. It started with a simple double slap—first horizontally, then vertically—as Seacrest playfully called it “a good start.” Determined to improve their ritual, Seacrest suggested adding more moves, demonstrating everything from waving hands in the air to slapping shoes.
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In the next clip, the pair tried their handshake again, and as White flashed a big smile and gave two thumbs up, Seacrest enthusiastically announced, “Showtime!” before they walked onto the stage.
Fans immediately reacted with excitement, flooding the comment section with suggestions for how to improve the handshake. Some called for a classic snap, others referenced famous handshakes from movies like Top Gun and The Parent Trap, and a few even suggested a fist bump or an elbow tap. Seacrest himself responded to a fan who shared a GIF of the Parent Trap hip bump, joking, “We’ll get to this level someday.”

The Significance Behind Their Ritual
While their handshake may seem like a simple, fun moment before the cameras roll, it represents something much deeper.
For one, it highlights the importance of teamwork. White and Seacrest are still developing their rhythm as co-hosts, and this ritual serves as a lighthearted way to connect before each episode. The handshake also gives viewers an inside look at their relationship, reinforcing the sense of camaraderie that makes Wheel of Fortune such a beloved show.
Additionally, the handshake adds a layer of authenticity to their interactions. Fans love seeing real, unscripted moments between hosts, and their evolving ritual provides a glimpse of their personalities beyond the structured nature of the game show format. White’s joyful reactions and Seacrest’s enthusiasm make it clear that their bond is genuine, making audiences even more invested in their dynamic.
Ryan Seacrest and Vanna White’s secret pre-show handshake is more than just a fun routine—it’s a symbol of their growing partnership and the new energy they bring to Wheel of Fortune. Fans are already embracing their chemistry and eagerly suggesting ways to make the handshake even better. As their ritual continues to evolve, one thing is certain: the bond between Seacrest and White is stronger than ever, and it’s helping usher in an exciting new era for the show.

What do you think they should add to their handshake next? Drop your suggestions in the comments below!