Pat Sajak, the beloved host of ‘Wheel of Fortune,’, is ready to hang up his hosting hat.
After an impressive 41 seasons, Sajak announced his retirement from the iconic game show.
Deadline obtained a statement from the host.
“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. If nothing else, it’ll keep the clickbait sites busy!”
Sajak, alongside his trusty sidekick Vanna White, had signed contract extensions in 2021.
Pat has been at the helm of Wheel of Fortune since 1981.
His hosting prowess has even earned him three Emmys, not to mention the prestigious 2011 Lifetime Achievement Award from the TV Academy.
Pat Sajak Made Wheel of Fortune A Household Name
In the heyday of the ’80s, Sajak was a true multitasker, taking on both a daytime and an evening version of the show.
His dedication paid off when he smashed records and claimed the title of the longest-running game show host in 2018.
During an interview, Sajak was once asked about his departure plans.
“I’d like to leave before people tune in, look at me and say, ‘Ooh, what happened to him?’ I wouldn’t bet on seeing us in 10 years.”
To honor Sajak’s momentous career, Suzanne Prete, EVP of Game Shows at Sony Pictures Television, expressed her gratitude.
“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. Pat has agreed to continue as a consultant on the show for three years following his last year hosting, so we’re thrilled to have him remaining close to the Wheel of Fortune family.”
Pat Sajak’s final spin is on the horizon.
Let’s savor every “buy a vowel” moment and “solve the puzzle” triumph while we can.
