By Michael Schneider

General editor of the variety

It was opening night for Ryan Seacrest on Monday's episode of "Wheel of Fortune" — so it was perhaps fitting that the first puzzle to roll out of the starting blocks was "OPENING NIGHT," based on the clue, "showbiz." "That's what it feels like here!" Seacrest remarked after one of the show's contestants solved the puzzle.

Syndicated game show mainstay “Wheel of Fortune” returned Monday for its 42nd season with some big changes, including a new set (which, Seacrest noted, came with lots of lights) and, of course, the biggest change of all: a new host. That was acknowledged up front, when announcer Jim Thornton opened the show: “And now together for the first time, here are the stars of our show, Ryan Seacrest and Vanna White!”