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‘Wheel of Fortune’ Host Pat Sajak Announces Retirement, But Who Will Take Over?

By: Karelle McKay
Published: June 13, 2023
Christopher Willard/ABC via Getty Images

This just in: Wheel of Fortune host Pat Sajak announced that he is retiring from the long-running game show after 41 seasons.

Per an official statement reported by Deadline, the 76-year-old game host confirmed that he will take his final spin of the wheel at the end of next season.

“Well, the time has come. I’ve decided that our 41st season, which begins in September, will be my last,” Sajak said. “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!”

Ricky Middlesworth/ABC via Getty Images

Sajak has hosted Wheel of Fortune since 1981. As the longtime host bids a final farewell to the show, there has been one pressing question on fans’ minds: Who will take over? While it’s too early to tell, viewers do have a top candidate in mind: Vanna White.

Since the Wheel of Fortune co-host has worked on the show since 1982, White, 66, feels like a perfect fit for the job. But as of right now, no replacement has been announced. But as of right now, no replacement has been announced. (BTW, the name Ryan Seacrest has also been circulating as a leading contender.)

Ricky Middlesworth/ABC via Getty Images

While some may find the news shocking, the Wheel of Fortune host has teased his retirement in the past. Back in September 2022, the TV personality sat down for an exclusive interview with Entertainment Tonight. When asked about his future involvement in the show, Sajak said, “It appears I may go before the show.”

He continued, “Years go by fast. We’re getting near the end. It’s been a long [time]. We’re not gonna do this for another 40 years. The end is near.” Sajak added, “It’s an honor to have been in people’s living rooms for that long. People were out there welcoming us. We're happy and proud.”

We’re sure going to miss you, Pat.

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How Much Does Pat Sajak Make? It’s Way More Than We Expected

Karelle McKay

Assistant Editor, News And Entertainment

Karelle McKay is the Assistant Editor of News and Entertainment at PureWow. Before she started writing about all things pop culture, she was a literal couch potato who loved...
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