Ryan Seacrest found himself trying to keep things under control when the “Dancing With the Stars” crew took over the “Celebrity Wheel of Fortune” set. The former “American Idol” host, 50, revealed in a USA Today interview on October 17 that Derek Hough, Bruno Tonioli, and Jenna Johnson brought their usual energy, and maybe a little too much of it, during filming.
“In the commercial break, [Hough] was jumping on the center of the wheel and having Bruno [Tonioli] spin it, much like the top of a cake ornament,” Seacrest recalled, laughing at the memory.
Eventually, Seacrest had to play the responsible one. “We did say, ‘Please don’t do that. That would break it, and there’s only one of those wheels. If that breaks, we have a real problem.’”
DWTS Cast Brings Energy to ‘Celebrity Wheel of Fortune’
The September 26 episode featured Hough, Tonioli, and Johnson competing for charity, bringing their signature energy to the set. “We had to sort of say, ‘Stick to the ledge,’” Seacrest said. “They’re very physical, and that makes for fun.”
Hough ended up winning the game, earning $63,350 for Feeding America. Seacrest admitted that having familiar faces on the show made the experience more fun. “Knowing someone, or being friends, is definitely helpful,” he said. “You can kind of tease them more than somebody you don’t know.”
From Friendly Warning to Heartfelt Moment
After the cameras stopped rolling, Hough received a touching surprise from co-host Vanna White. The 68-year-old presented him with a handmade baby blanket for his soon-to-arrive child with wife Hayley Erbert.
“When you came to the show, we taped your version, which is airing this Friday, I said I was going to make you a baby blanket,” White told him, handing over the thoughtful gift. “So, here you go.”
“I can’t wait to show this to my wife,” Hough said, visibly emotional. “I can’t wait to swaddle… I’m going to get emotional. I can’t wait.”
A Friendship Built on Fun & Respect
While Seacrest is known for his composure and professionalism, Hough’s playful personality brought a welcome spark to the set. Their easy banter highlighted the contrast between Seacrest’s steady hosting style and Hough’s infectious energy.
(Photo by DAVID MCNEW/AFP via Getty Images)The two share a long history. Seacrest previously dated Hough’s sister, Julianne, from 2010 to 2013, but they remain friends. Today, Seacrest continues to balance his hosting duties across multiple shows, while Hough and Erbert prepare to welcome their first child.
Their reunion on “Celebrity Wheel of Fortune” served as a reminder that even in the spotlight, laughter and friendship keep things rolling.
