Wheel of Fortune Fans Disappointed as Celebrity Edition Delayed for NFL Simulcasts

Fans of the beloved game show Wheel of Fortune were eagerly anticipating the return of the celebrity edition, but their excitement has been dampened by the news that the show's upcoming season has been postponed. The decision to add more Monday Night Football simulcasts to ABC's schedule has resulted in the delay, leaving viewers disappointed and wondering when they'll get to see their favorite stars spin the wheel.

Bringing the Excitement of the NFL to Primetime Audiences

The decision to add more NFL simulcasts to ABC's programming lineup is a strategic move aimed at capitalizing on the league's immense popularity. As part of the network's new deal, they will be airing Super Bowl 61 in February 2027, the first of two such events they will host. This decision, made in conjunction with the NFL, is intended to maximize the reach of the league's programming across the Disney ecosystem, which includes ABC.

Maximizing Cross-Promotional Opportunities

The addition of the NFL simulcasts to ABC's schedule is not just about bringing more football to viewers; it's also about leveraging the synergies between the network and the league. By airing these games, ABC can cross-promote its other programming, including the popular game shows Celebrity Wheel of Fortune and Press Your Luck. This move is expected to provide a more consistent, weekly run for these shows during the midseason, when there are typically fewer preemptions due to events like football and elections.

Disappointing News for Wheel of Fortune Fans

The delay in the premiere of the new season of Celebrity Wheel of Fortune has been a major disappointment for the show's loyal fans. Many were eagerly anticipating the return of iconic host Pat Sajak and the chance to see their favorite celebrities compete on the iconic game show. The news that the season premiere has been pushed back to 2025 has left fans feeling frustrated and impatient.

Exploring the Impact on Other ABC Programming

The decision to add more NFL simulcasts to ABC's schedule has not only affected Celebrity Wheel of Fortune, but also other shows on the network's lineup. Press Your Luck and ABC News' Scamanda have also been impacted, with their premieres now scheduled for the midseason slot. This shift in programming is likely to have ripple effects across the network's entire schedule, as they work to balance the demands of live sports coverage with their other popular entertainment offerings.

Anticipating the Return of Celebrity Wheel of Fortune

Despite the disappointment, Wheel of Fortune fans can take solace in the knowledge that the celebrity edition will eventually return to their screens. When it does, they can look forward to seeing a star-studded lineup of guests, including Ellie Kemper, Tiffany Haddish, Oscar Nuñez, and Andrew Rannells, among others. The delay may be frustrating, but the promise of the show's eventual return is sure to keep fans eagerly awaiting its comeback.