Ryan Seacrest is one of the most recognizable faces in television and radio of this generation. Not only is he a well-known television host, but he is also an accomplished radio show host, producer, and entrepreneur.
Worth $380 million, he has often been called the hardest-working man in show business. Whether it's a special event like New Year's Eve, a red carpet for a national awards show, or a television special, chances are Seacrest will be in front of the camera.
Of his many hosting jobs, though, which are his best? Here they are, ranked.
Lover's Lane (Beverly Hills, 90210)
OK, this wasn't a real hosting gig but it's worth mentioning because Seacrest appeared on the iconic '90s teen drama Beverly Hills, 90210 as the host of a fictional game show called Lover's Lane.
On the episode, titled "The Final Proof," which appeared in the 10th season and final season, Kelly and Matt go on a couple's Valentine's Day game show with Donna and Janet as coaches but Kelly gets nervous and Donna ends up going on air in her place.
Gladiators 2000
This was one of three kids' game shows that Seacrest hosted in the '90s, alongside Wild Animals Games (1995) and Click (1997). This one, which he hosted from 1994 to 1996, was a spin-off of the popular series American Gladiators.
It aired for two seasons and saw two teams of young competitors join forces with two adult Gladiators as their coaches to compete in a series of athletic events while also answering trivia questions.
Ultimate Revenge
Seacrest hosted this reality TV show way back in 2001 which saw family and friends play elaborate practical jokes on other family members and friends. It aired on TNN for two seasons.
Many of the episodes of this revenge-focused show also featured Karel, a well-known talk radio host, singer, TV personality, journalist, and author, who is active in the industry to this day.
2012 London Olympic Games Closing Ceremony
Titled A Symphony of British Music, this ceremony, which took place in the Olympic Stadium in the summer of 2012, was officially hosted by Al Michaels. But Seacrest served as the primetime correspondent.
It was a massive ceremony that included some major talent and musical performances, from George Michael to Annie Lennox and The Spice Girls along with epic parades, gymnasts, and more.
E! News Red Carpet Coverage
If you watch the E! network live pre-show coverage from major awards show ceremonies like the Oscars, the Grammys, and the Golden Globes, chances are you'll see Seacrest's smiling face on the rep carpet, chatting up celebrities as they arrive.
It's completely live so Seacrest, donning a fancy suit or tuxedo, must discuss the movies, music, TV shows, or other projects with the celebrities and engage in talk off the cuff, with some help from producers in his ear, of course. It's one of those "anything can happen" gigs, but Seacrest is always up for the challenge.
American Top 40
Those who still tune into the radio love to listen to Seacrest's American Top 40 internationally syndicated countdown program, which was originally created by well-known radio personality Casey Kasem.
On the show, an adjunct to the weekday radio program On Air With Ryan Seacrest, the concept is exactly as it sounds: Seacrest talks about and plays a countdown of the top songs of the week, from the 40th most popular to the number-one hit.
Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve
These were big shoes to fill when Dick Clark stepped down as host of this New Year's Eve live broadcast that he created in 2004. But Seacrest was a no-brainer to take on the job, especially considering that Clark was one of his biggest idols.
He continues to host this annual special live from New York every year, helping viewers worldwide ring in the new year. Clark still participated in a limited capacity every year until his death in 2012.
Live with Kelly and Ryan
In another instance where there were big shoes to fill, this show was originally hosted by Regis Philbin and Kathie Lee Gifford. Michael Strahan and Kelly Ripa did a great job taking over, but when Strahan announced he would be leaving, who would be filling his shoes?
Seacrest made a huge decision to move from Los Angeles to New York and take on the show, a gig he has held since 2017.
On Air with Ryan Seacrest
Produced by iHeartMedia, this morning radio show broadcasts on KIIS-FM. Launched in 2004, it began in syndication in 2008, with Seacrest hosting his version of the show in Los Angeles in the early morning hours.
Even the syndicated shows that aired elsewhere in the afternoons still use segments from Seacrest's live show, interspersed with music. Seacrest now balances this gig with his on-screen one on Live with Kelly and Ryan by broadcasting from a studio in New York.
American Idol
It remains Seacrest's most recognizable hosting gig to date, especially with young viewers and families. He has hosted the reality singing competition series since its inception in 2002, first alongside Brian Dunkleman, then on his own.
The series was canceled by Fox in 2016 but then resurrected by ABC two years later, which serves as its current home. And of course, Seacrest returned to host, a gig he continues to have to this day. The "new" American Idol just wrapped up its third and most challenging season as everyone, including Seacrest, participated remotely.