Pat Sajak retires as host of Wheel of Fortune after 41 seasons
Vanna White pays emotional tribute to Sajak during final broadcast on June 6, 2024
White and Sajak's partnership began in 1982 when he was hesitant to hire her after Susan Stafford left
Pat Sajak, the long-time host of 'Wheel of Fortune,' is retiring after 41 seasons. His final episode is set to air on June 7, 2024. Vanna White, his co-host since 1982, paid an emotional tribute to him during the show's June 6 broadcast.
White shared a video segment featuring clips and photos from their collaboration over the decades. She expressed her gratitude for their friendship and work partnership, which began when Sajak was initially hesitant to hire her after Susan Stafford left in 1982. However, Merv Griffin saw potential in White, leading to a successful four-decade partnership.
White also acknowledged the impact of 'Wheel of Fortune' on their lives and families. She shared memories of watching their children grow up together and traveling around the world as part of the show.
Sajak announced his retirement in June 2023, with Ryan Seacrest set to take over as host. White extended her contract through the 2025-2026 season to help shepherd Sajak's replacement.
Fans of 'Wheel of Fortune' have been touched by the emotional farewell between Sajak and White. During the show's peak, many named their daughters Vanna in honor of White. Her tearful goodbye to Sajak was a testament to their long-lasting bond and the impact they have had on television.
Vanna White paid an emotional tribute to Pat Sajak before his final episode as the host of Wheel of Fortune
White honored their collaboration and friendship with a video segment featuring clips and photos from their time together on the show since the 1980s
Pat Sajak and Vanna White have been working together on Wheel of Fortune since 1982, appearing in over 8,000 episodes
Sajak announced his retirement in June 2023 and White extended her contract through the 2025-2026 season to help shepherd his replacement, Ryan Seacrest
Seacrest expressed being humbled to take over as host from Sajak and Sajak’s final episode aired on Friday