Pat Sajak Announces His Retirement From Wheel Of Fortune
One year ago, television personality Pat Sajak announced his retirement from the game show Wheel of Fortune after 41 years as host. In a brief statement shared online, the 77-year-old wrote:
“Well, the time has come. I’ve decided that our 41st season, which begins in September, will be my last. It’s been a wonderful ride, and I’ll have more to say in the coming months. Many thanks to you all.”
Sony Pictures Television producer Suzanne Prete later added:
“As the host of ‘Wheel of Fortune,’ Pat has entertained millions of viewers across America for 40 amazing years. We are incredibly grateful and proud to have had Pat as our host for all these years and we look forward to celebrating his outstanding career throughout the upcoming season.”
Prete also revealed that Sajak would stay close to the show and serve as a consultant once he retired from his hosting duties.
Pat Sajak’s history on Wheel of Fortune
Sajak joined Wheel of Fortune in 1981 as the daytime emcee, then took over nighttime hosting duties in 1983. He won the Daytime Emmy for Outstanding Game Show Host three times and received 19 total nominations.
As a result, Pat Sajak is considered one of the most successful game show hosts in television history.
Vanna White reflects on her years-long friendship with Pat Sajak
Vanna White, who served as the co-host of Wheel of Fortune, recalled how Sajak made her feel comfortable and confident during the show’s early seasons and how they “grew up together” during their decades-long partnership.
Hear Vanna White’s touching message to Pat Sajak below.
Pat Sajak says goodbye to Wheel of Fortune
During his final appearance on the beloved game show, Sajak gave a heartfelt speech thanking fans and expressing that it was an “incredible privilege to be invited into millions of homes night after night, year after year, decade after decade.”
Wheel of Fortune shared his speech to YouTube with a touching goodbye to Sajak, sharing:
“41 seasons and 8,000+ episodes later, we will miss you so dearly! Your legacy on Wheel will continue to inspire us, Pat. May your next chapter be as rewarding as your career has been for us! Thanks for the memories.”
Watch Pat Sajak’s final speech on Wheel of Fortune below!