Pat Sajak, the charming host of Wheel of Fortune, has announced that he has officially departed the long-running game show. With this announcement it puts an end to his terrific 41 season run. Sajak had in fact announced his retirement in June 2023. He is scheduled to depart officially after the show’s 41st season, beginning in September. The 78-year-old host — an American television mainstay since 1983 — has become a kind of American institution. He masterfully made Wheel of Fortune from daytime to prime time TV.
On his last episode, in June, Sajak used his farewell message to reminisce about his decades-long partnership with his cohost, Vanna White. For more than 40 years, the pair has worked together on the program. They have gone on to make history as one of television’s most enduring pairs. Reflecting on their time together, Sajak cited his good fortune at having White’s professionalism and humor during their decades-long collaboration.
“Like me, she takes the show very seriously, but not herself. I shudder to think what these 40-plus years might have been like had they brought someone in all full of themselves, playing the prima donna role,” – Pat Sajak
Additionally, Sajak’s own journey with Wheel of Fortune started over 40 years ago. Over the years, though, he’s not only seen the beloved game show transform into a cultural phenomenon — he’s helped make it happen. During the course of his tenure, he’s interviewed thousands of different incarnations of the show. Most recently, he hosted the Celebrity Wheel of Fortune in 2025. He thanked ABC for helping the industry get through that challenging period.
“I want to thank ABC for the opportunity to host season 5 of Celebrity Wheel of Fortune. I hope they’ll take a close look at my proposed primetime series, Sajak Senior Secret Agent,” – Pat Sajak
Sajak’s retirement signals the end of an era in television history. He is survived by a legacy rich in rooting for the little guy and beauty of place. Over the course of his career, he’s done this all while keeping a playful spirit, calling out contestants and sending up viewers with an irreverent sense of humor.
In addition to his work on Wheel of Fortune, Sajak has recently appeared in a stage production titled Prescription: Murder alongside actor Joe Moore, showcasing his talents beyond the game show format. He suggested that he would announce more information about his long-term plans over the next few months.
As Sajak prepares to exit the stage after years of entertaining millions, fans reflect on his contributions to the show and the memorable moments he created. His departure signifies the end of an era for Wheel of Fortune. Beyond that, it opens doors to new opportunities just over the horizon.
