When Vanna White shared a cooking video with her son, Nikko Santo Pietro, little did they know it would become a viral sensation, sparking a social media frenzy. The reason? Ryan Seacrest had no trouble explaining why the video took off, but Vanna was left bewildered. What’s the real reason behind Nikko’s sudden social media fame, and how does he feel about it? Get the full scoop on his rise to viral stardom! 👇👇

Vanna White Stunned by Her Son’s Accidental Viral Video, Ryan Seacrest Knows Exactly Why Everyone’s Obsessed

Vanna White, the beloved co-host of Wheel of Fortune, recently found herself in the spotlight for a reason she didn’t quite expect—her son, Nikko Santo Pietro, became the unintentional star of a viral cooking video. On January 23, 2025, during a segment of Wheel of Fortune, Vanna and her son’s viral video from December was discussed. The video, which originally showed them preparing a family recipe, turned into a sensation on social media. However, the focus of the viral attention wasn’t entirely about the cooking—it was Nikko’s appearance.

The Viral Video That Took Over the Internet

The video in question featured Vanna and Nikko cooking “Uncle Roy’s Chicken” as part of Wheel of Fortune’s Fabulous Food Week. While the dish itself was delicious, it wasn’t the recipe that captured the audience’s attention. Instead, it was Nikko’s casual appearance, dressed in a snug white T-shirt, which turned him into a social media sensation. The online audience dubbed him a “thirst trap,” a term used to describe content posted on social media intended to draw attention through an attractive appearance.

During the segment on Wheel of Fortune, Vanna expressed her confusion at her son’s newfound popularity, saying, “I don’t get it.” Clearly, Vanna was perplexed that her son’s looks were overshadowing the cooking itself. Meanwhile, Wheel of Fortune host Ryan Seacrest, known for his witty commentary, jumped in to explain that Nikko’s appearance likely stole the spotlight, highlighting the way modern audiences engage with content.

“It’s not about the chicken. It’s all about Nikko,” Seacrest joked, adding a humorous layer to the moment. This playful exchange added an extra level of charm to the episode, making it even more memorable for viewers.

Nikko’s Response to the Viral Fame

While Vanna was bewildered by the attention, Nikko seemed to take it all in stride. The 30-year-old son of the iconic TV personality has made it clear that he values authenticity over mere physical appeal. In an interview, Nikko shared insights into his life, explaining that he’s proud of his accomplishments but doesn’t want to be defined by a viral moment. Nikko is in a committed relationship with singer-songwriter Easae, with whom he’s been dating for about a year.

Nikko emphasized that there’s much more to him than his appearance, which he attributes to his mom’s good genes. His humor and grounded personality have resonated with fans, and he has used this sudden surge of attention to show that he’s much more than just a TV star’s son.

Nikko also seems keen on keeping his life authentic, despite being thrust into the limelight for his looks. “I want to be known for my own skills and passion,” Nikko shared. “I’m proud of who I am, and that’s what I want people to see.”

Continuing Their Culinary Journey

The viral video’s success wasn’t a one-off. Following the overwhelming response, Vanna and Nikko decided to keep the momentum going by sharing more cooking videos on their social media accounts. Their next post featured a delightful soup recipe, and fans were treated not just to a delicious meal but to more heartwarming moments of the mother-son duo cooking together.

Vanna and Nikko’s social media cooking escapades have provided a rare glimpse into their close-knit relationship. It’s evident that the two share a special bond, and their playful dynamic, filled with humor and love, has captured the hearts of their growing fanbase. Each video not only showcases their culinary talents but also deepens the sense of connection and camaraderie between them.

For viewers, the sight of Vanna and Nikko laughing together in the kitchen brings a refreshing sense of joy and authenticity that feels real and relatable. The simplicity of their interactions has helped them forge an even stronger connection with fans who love them both for their personalities and not just their public personas.

Ryan Seacrest and the Social Media Era

While the viral moment was largely a result of Nikko’s unexpected popularity, Ryan Seacrest’s commentary underscored how social media has transformed the way people engage with celebrities and public figures. In an era dominated by platforms like Instagram and TikTok, it’s not just talent or achievements that capture attention—it’s how individuals present themselves, their image, and how relatable they appear to their audience.

The “thirst trap” phenomenon has become a part of everyday online culture, with fans increasingly engaging with influencers and celebrities based on their appearances as much as their talents. This has led to a more superficial approach to fame for many, yet Nikko and Vanna’s authenticity and willingness to laugh at the situation is a breath of fresh air in an otherwise image-driven world.

Conclusion: The Family That Cooks Together, Stays Together

Vanna White and Nikko Santo Pietro’s culinary adventures on social media have revealed a side of the beloved TV personality that many didn’t expect. While Vanna remains a beloved figure in the world of television, she’s also showing fans a more personal, relatable side through her cooking videos with her son.

Nikko’s appearance in the viral video, while initially surprising to Vanna, has sparked a conversation about fame, image, and how the internet elevates people to celebrity status. But beyond the attention and comments, it’s clear that this mother-son duo is having a blast sharing their cooking moments and making memories together.

As the viral video continues to make waves, one thing remains certain: Vanna and Nikko’s bond, along with their shared love for food, will undoubtedly keep fans coming back for more. Whether it’s cooking together in the kitchen or sharing a laugh about social media reactions, Vanna and Nikko’s lighthearted journey reminds us all that sometimes, the best moments in life are the simplest ones.