Ryan Seacrest Shares Unusual Stance On Engagement Rings

Ryan Seacrest is laying it all out there. During an episode of his radio show, “On Air With Ryan Seacrest,” the “American Idol” host took an unexpected stance while discussing marriage and engagement rings. While the 51-year-old has never been engaged or married, he was candid about his belief that today’s flashy jewelry pieces are becoming more about public perception than a symbol of love. As he continued, the TV personality said he’d rather spend his resources on memorable experiences with his partner than waste them on material objects.

Ryan Seacrest Shares His Unexpected Stance On Engagement Rings, Says People Are Paying Way Too Much

Seacrest has never been one to stay silent, and on the April 7 episode of his radio show, according to Geo News, the “Wheel of Fortune” host questioned whether engagement rings are worth it in the year 2026.

“A lot of couples are saying, ‘Hey, is the engagement ring really worth it?’” he said before asking the average cost, “$10,000?”

“Average cost of an engagement ring in the U.S., $10,000. Think about what you could do with your partner for $10,000,” Seacrest added.

According to an American Express report from September 2025, the average cost of an engagement ring is about $5,200. However, the financial institution noted that there is no “one-size-fits-all formula” and that buyers should consider their current and projected income, expenses, and savings before making the hefty purchase.

Ryan Seacrest Questions The Importance Of An Engagement Ring

Seacrest has never been engaged; however, he has been in several high-profile relationships. Most recently, he dated Aubrey Paige, although the pair called it quits in 2024.

On his radio show, Seacrest questioned whether engagement rings were still important, then suggested that couples could use that money to create meaningful memories.

“I honestly think—and I’m gonna say this—because when I meet my human, and it’s that time, we’re gonna have experiences together,” he said. “We’re gonna focus on building our bond. Doing things together.”

Continuing, Seacrest said the “priority” should be on taking risks and working toward creating the life they want.

Ryan Seacrest Previously Joked About Not Getting Married Because He’d ‘Die Soon’

Seacrest has been open about marriage before, according to TV Insider. In 2025, the former “Live” host stopped by the studio to hang out with Kelly Ripa and her husband, Mark Consuelos. During the episode, Seacrest said he’d given getting married a bit more thought after officiating a friend’s wedding earlier.

However, Seacrest admitted that after even more reflection, he realized getting hitched might not be in the cards for him.

“Well, at this age now, if I got married, it’s like, I’d die soon, so it’s like, ‘What’s the point?’” he said, prompting Conseulos to joke, “You’ve got a good 17 years left.”

Seacrest Reveals His Red And Green Flags In A Relationship

On an earlier episode of his radio show, Seacrest got candid about what he looks for in a partner before sharing what things might throw him off.

Seacrest went on to share that he normally takes his dates out to exercise with him and uses their interaction to determine whether they’re worth pursuing.

“When you’re out on a run or a walk or a bike ride, do you say hi to people that pass?” he asked, noting that those who don’t lack manners. “If you don’t, I’m not so sure about you. And if someone says ‘good morning’ to you on the path and you don’t respond, that is a red flag.”

Another red flag for Seacrest would be if his potential partner wasn’t eager to partake in some of his traditions.

“I really look forward to getting up and having my coffee,” he said. “I think if we can’t share that moment together, it’s a red flag. So, ‘I need coffee,’ is a green flag. Don’t have a lot, and please don’t put milks and stuff in it.”

Seacrest’s Father Passed Away

According to a previous report from The Blast, Seacrest opened up about the devastating news that his father, Gary Lee Seacrest, passed away in October 2025, after a years-long battle with cancer.

“It is with a heavy heart that I share with you that my loving father peacefully passed away earlier this week,” he wrote in the caption. “My mom, sister and I have peace knowing he is in a better place and free of any pain or suffering. We are heartbroken.”

Seacrest recalled his final moments with his father on his radio show, saying the 81-year-old looked over to him and asked him to take care of his mother, sister, and the rest of their family. “And then literally a few seconds later, he closed his eyes and said, ‘I’ve got to go.’ … He knew. He was at peace,” Seacrest said.