Ryan Seacrest debuts as 'Wheel of Fortune' host with Vanna White by his side

The Ryan Seacrest Era has begun on "Wheel of Fortune."

New host Seacrest, 49, wasted little time getting to the spinning on the brilliantly-lit, redesigned "Wheel" set in his first episode Monday, following the retirement of "Wheel" icon Pat Sajak in June, after more than four decades and 8,000 shows.

Seacrest made a smiling entrance through new grandly sliding lit doors, walking arm-in-arm with longtime co-host Vanna White. After brief pleasantries and a "Welcome to the show!" from White, Seacrest took his new spot behind the wheel.

"I still cannot believe my luck of being here with you tonight, to continue this legacy of this incredible show," said Seacrest, who said he watched "Wheel" with his family as a kid growing up in Atlanta. "I know how special it is that 'Wheel' has been in your living rooms for the past 40 years, and I'm just so grateful to be invited in. I also know I've got some very big shoes to fill."

Ryan Seacrest brings change:But won't reinvent the 'Wheel of Fortune' with Vanna White

Need a break? Play the USA TODAY Daily Crossword Puzzle.

Seacrest declares 'Wheel' success, no dismayed grunting from contestants

Even when Seacrerat smoothly turned to the business of contestants spinning the wheel and solving word puzzles, a minute into the broadcast, there were obvious bows to the pivotal moment in the long-running Hangman-inspired TV game show. The first puzzle solved was "Opening Night." The second puzzle featured the phrase, “There’s A First Time For Everything.”

Each of the three contestants won cash, and Terry Watson from Browns Summit, North Carolina, won trips to Italy and Mexico along with $25,893. Watson missed out on an additional $40,000 in the bonus round, prompting him to moan in dejection.

But Seacrest declared victory: "No grunting," Seacrest said, patting Watson on the back. "You've got over $25,000 in cash and prizes and great trips. Thank you for being here on my first night."

Seacrest debriefs with Vanna White after the show: How did 'Wheel' go?

Following the game, Seacrest and White had a debrief on the new set.

"I feel like we did one. We got one under our belt," said Seacrest, who gestured to the brilliant lights around him. "How do you like the new set?"

"It's beautiful," said White.

"A lot of lights," said Seacrest. "Let's hope it continues to work all week."

With that, the duo waved farewell for the night.

"We'll see you tomorrow," said Seacrest.

Seacrest posts video showing trouble with 'Wheel' steps

After the premiere, Seacrest posted a fun gallery on his Instagram account, which included a video showing trouble navigating the sleek new set.

"I can't tell where the steps are," Seacrest said, comically finding his footing.

"If you're having half as much fun watching as I am hosting, we're in for an amazing season," Seacrest wrote in the caption.