Pat Sajak is moving on from his ‘Wheel of Fortune’ hosting days. He’s been gracing TV screens with his talents for 41 years.
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The Associated Press reports that he’s filmed over 8,000 episodes of the reality game show during his time as host. His last episode will air on Friday (June 7). Hours before its release, Sajak released a statement about his retirement.
Of course, he thanked his viewers for sticking by him “night after night, year after year, decade after decade.” Pat Sajak added that the half-hour spot was always meant to be a “safe place for family fun.” The show hardly ever dived into social and political topics, both with the guests and his co-host, Vanna White.
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In his message, Pat acknowledged that ‘Wheel of Fortune’ turned into “more” than “just a game” for its viewers.
“A place where kids learned their letters, where people from other countries honed their English skills, where families came together along with friends and neighbors and entire generations. What an honor to have played even a small part in all that,” he said.
Pat first announced his retirement in June 2023, letting it be known season 41 would be his last. Ryan Seacrest is set to take over as host, with Vanna sticking by as co-host for the 2025-2026 season.
Pat Sajak is signing off. pic.twitter.com/X4A5sn7XQN
— New York Post (@nypost) June 7, 2024
Vanna White Shares Message Ahead Of Pat Sajak’s Departure
Vanna shared a sentimental message for his decades-long co-host on Thursday night. During the ‘Wheel of Fortune’ episode, White displayed a video showing their collab moments from the 1980s until now.
“As this chapter of our lives is coming to an end, I know you’ll still be close by. You’re like a brother to me and I consider you a true lifelong friend who I will always adore. I love you, Pat.”
Sajak and White have been one of television’s most iconic duos since they started working on ‘Wheel of Fortune’ together in 1982. That’s when the show first aired in syndication.
They have appeared in over 8,000 episodes together, with Sajak leading the contestants through the game and White famously turning the letters on the puzzle board.
Vanna White expressed that their work relationship was meaningful to her, but not as much as their personal connection.
“As much fun as we had on camera, those memories, milestones and life events we shared with our families, outside the studio, are my favorite. We’ve watched our children grow up together, we’ve traveled all over the world, we’ve eaten hundreds of meals together. We’ve laughed, we’ve cried, we’ve celebrated.”
After White’s video dedication to her Pat Sajak, they embraced on their longtime stage.
Congrats on your next chapter, Pat!
Associated Press reporter Kaitlyn Huamani contributed to this report.
