Vanna White, host of “WHEEL of Fortune,” shared a sweet moment when her 27-year-old daughter met one of her favorite celebrities.
Vanna, 67, introduced her rarely seen daughter Gigi to rapper Snoop Dogg when he appeared on an episode of Celebrity Wheel of Fortune.
The longtime journalist and journalist sat down for an interview with Good Morning America on Monday with the game show’s new host, Ryan Seacrest, 49.
As we talked about the show’s 42nd season, which premiered that night, Vanna was asked what earned her the most “mommy points” behind the scenes.
Vanna has two children with her ex-husband George Santo Pietro, daughter Gigi and son Nikko.
Recalling the moment, the TV star explained that her daughter “begged” her to meet 52-year-old Snoop when he was a guest on Celebrity WoF.
Read more about Wheel of Fortune
Vanna said Gigi has met celebrities in the past, but was especially excited to meet the “Drop It Like It’s Hot” hitmaker.
GMA aired a behind-the-scenes clip of tattoo artist Gigi hugging Snoop for the first time.
Vanna also shared a sweet photo of Gigi and Snoop as he leaned his head on her.
Speaking of their first meeting, Vanna said her daughter was “so happy” and Snoop was “so nice” and “a cool guy.”
GMA host Robin Roberts even added that Snoop was “mommy approved,” to which Vanna responded, “Absolutely.”
PREDICTING THE FUTURE
During the interview, Robin also surprised Vanna with a throwback clip of her on the morning show from four decades ago.
“Vanna, you were on the show and in our hearts for 40 years,” Robin said.
“We’ve pulled up the GMA archives. Check it out.”
A young Vanna from 1985 appeared on the screen and was asked: “Vanna, do you have any other goals at the moment?”
“Not at the moment,” she replied. “I’ll stick with Wheel of Fortune as long as it’s running.”
What you need to know about Wheel of Fortune employees
The Wheel of Fortune universe is bigger than fans realize. Here’s a look at the key staff of America’s most iconic puzzle game show:
Ryan Seacrest: Presenter, 2024-present
Vanna White: Co-host, 1982-present
Maggie Sajak: Social media correspondent, since 2021
Jim Thornton: announcer, 2011-present
Pat Sajak: Host from 1981-2024, recently retired Pat still hosts Celebrity Wheel of Fortune and is now executive producer
Bellamie Blackstone: Executive Producer, since 2021
Steve Schwartz, executive producer for over 30 years and now co-executive producer
Jimmy McGuire: Stage manager and former Jeopardy! Clue crew member (also Jeopardy! stage manager)
“Wheel of Fortune” and “Jeopardy!” famously share a studio lot and use the other players’ set next door for practice games before the players take the stage.
Find out more about who keeps the Wheel of Fortune spinning here.
GMA then switched to the present, where Vanna added, “And I’m still here!”
SHENANIGANS OF THE NEW SEASON
Ryan took the stage with Vanna for her big season 42 premiere on Monday, September 9.
The premiere was a major milestone in television, marking the first episode in which Ryan took over as host, succeeding the legendary Pat Sajak, who served as host for 41 years.
Ryan and Vanna exited the game show through the bright new set, which had sliding doors in the middle of the stage.
The American Idol host wore a black suit and tie, while Vanna wore a majestic blue evening gown.
“Welcome to the show,” Vanna said to Ryan. “It’s great that you’re here.”
He then stood in the middle of the stage and addressed the cheering audience and those watching at home.
“Welcome to Wheel of Fortune. I’m your host Ryan Seacrest,” he said.
“I still can’t believe my luck to be here tonight and to continue the legacy of this incredible show.
“And of course my good friend Vanna White. Thank you for the warm welcome,” he added.
Ryan also said that hosting WoF is his “dream job” and that he is aware of the “big shoes” he has to fill, citing Pat’s legacy.
With the new season, the show received an updated look, including a new laser-engraved letter board.
The screen also showed all three participants on their boards while they solved puzzles.
The brightly lit set and shiny puzzle board distracted many viewers, leading them to vent their displeasure on social media.
“I understand Wheel of Fortune replaced Pat Sajak because he retired, but why did they have to change the entire set?!” one person wrote on X.
“This new set takes more getting used to than Ryan. Everything is so computer generated and bright,” said another.
“Not impressed with the new Wheel of Fortune set,” someone else shared.
Others had mixed reviews about Ryan as the show’s new host. Some called him “boring,” while others thought he was “not that bad.”