Ryan Seacrest welcomed the new year with a noticeably different outlook after losing his father, Gary Seacrest, in October. During the live broadcast, he paused to share kind words about his dad, quietly honoring the role his father played in shaping who he is.
This year’s broadcast, the longest in the show’s history, featured live performances from Diana Ross, Ciara, Little Big Town, Maren Morris, and LE SSERAFIM in New York City, along with additional artists performing from cities around the world.
How Seacrest Is Holding His Late Dad Close To His Heart While Juggling Work Commitments
He also spoke about his beloved dad with Us Weekly during promotions for “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest” in New York City on Tuesday, December 30.
The longtime “American Idol” host said grief has shifted the way he approaches life and the moments that matter most.
“Losing someone so close to you, my dad, my best friend, you realize that life is short,” Seacrest, 51, said.
“You’ve got to make the most of it every day.” He added, “Some of the little things that we let bother us are not important in the grand scheme. That resonated with me.”
How Seacrest Paid Tribute To His Dad During the Holiday Season
Seacrest shared news of his father’s death in October after a yearlong battle with prostate cancer. As the holiday season arrived, he acknowledged the loss publicly with a deeply personal message.
“First Christmas without Dad, but holding him close in all the ways we can,” Seacrest wrote in an emotional Instagram post shared December 25. “We miss you. Merry Heavenly Christmas.”
In the months since, the television host has spoken candidly about how time with family has taken on new meaning. “This was a tough year. I lost my best friend,” he said, as reported by Variety, explaining how the loss has reshaped what New Year’s Eve represents for him.
Despite personal grief, Seacrest said hosting the annual broadcast still carries purpose.
“People want to feel good. You can watch this show, and you can feel alright for a few hours. And then you can set the scene for a big start in the new year,” he said, as reported by Variety.
Seacrest first shared news of his father’s passing in October, announcing that Gary Seacrest had died after battling prostate cancer.
“It is with a heavy heart that I share with you that my loving father peacefully passed away earlier this week,” Ryan, 50, wrote via Instagram on Friday, October 31.
“My mom,, sister and I have peace knowing he is in a better place and free of any pain or suffering. We are heartbroken.”
As he moves forward into a new year, Seacrest has continued to honor his father’s memory, carrying that loss with him while finding comfort in family and his strong commitment to his work.
