Ryan Seacrest Embraces New Outlook for 2026 After Father’s Passing
Ryan Seacrest is entering 2026 with a renewed perspective on life following the death of his father, Gary Seacrest, in October. The television host, aged 51, shared his reflections during a promotional event for Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve on December 30 in New York City. “Losing someone so close to you — my dad, my best friend — you realize that life is short,” Seacrest told Us Weekly. He emphasized the importance of making the most of each day, stating, “Some of the little things that we let bother us are not important in the grand scheme. That resonated with me.”
Gary Seacrest passed away after a year-long struggle with prostate cancer. Earlier this month, Ryan paid tribute to his father during the holiday season. In a heartfelt Instagram post on December 25, he wrote, “First Christmas without Dad, but holding him close in all the ways we can. We miss you. Merry Heavenly Christmas.”
New Year’s Eve Celebrations and Future Plans
As the year comes to a close, Ryan Seacrest is preparing to co-host the New Year’s Eve event alongside singer Rita Ora. Ora, 35, expressed her aspirations for 2026, stating, “I’m just really challenging myself creatively. I’m going in with a new perspective, really trying to see what comes out that surprises people. I’m very inspired.”
Both hosts are braving the cold weather as they prepare for the live ABC broadcast on December 31. “I’m frozen,” Ora joked about the chilly conditions. “I mean, I can’t pretend anymore.” To combat the cold, she plans to make wardrobe changes throughout the evening, stating, “It’s live TV, so I’m just gonna have to make it work.” Seacrest, on the other hand, plans to maintain his signature look in a classic tuxedo. “It will be the same thing all night,” he assured.
Star-Studded Performances Await Viewers
This year’s Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve will feature an impressive lineup of performers, including Ciara, Diana Ross, LE SSERAFIM, Little Big Town, and Maren Morris, who will all take the stage in Times Square. Chance the Rapper will host the Chicago countdown, while Roselyn Sanchez will lead the celebrations from Puerto Rico.
The event will also see the dynamic duo of Julianne Hough and Rob Gronkowski celebrating live from Las Vegas. Seacrest expressed enthusiasm about their participation, noting, “They’re fantastic. Gronk is hysterical, and you don’t know what he’s gonna do. Julianne is a phenomenal host. She can do everything. So, we’re excited to have them.”
The west coast live stream will showcase performances from a variety of artists, including The All-American Rejects, Demi Lovato, Charlie Puth, and Mariah Carey.
Viewers can tune in to Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest 2026, which will air live on ABC starting at 20:00 ET on December 31. The show will also be available for streaming on Hulu the following day. As the celebrations unfold, Seacrest’s new outlook on life will undoubtedly resonate, reminding viewers of the importance of cherishing every moment.
