Pat Sajak, who has been hosting the popular game show ‘Wheel of Fortune’ for nearly four decades, announced that he will retire from his role in 2024. The 76-year-old television personality made the announcement during an interview with USA Today on Monday.
Sajak said that he has been thinking about retirement for a while and that he wants to spend more time with his family and pursue other interests. He also said that he does not want to overstay his welcome and that he feels grateful for the opportunity to entertain millions of viewers over the years.
“I’ve had a wonderful career and I’ve loved every minute of it,” Sajak said. “But I think it’s time to move on and let someone else take over the wheel.”
Sajak joined ‘Wheel of Fortune’ as the host in 1981, replacing Chuck Woolery. Since then, he has become one of the most recognizable and beloved figures on television, earning three Emmy Awards and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. He also holds the Guinness World Record for the longest career as a game show host for the same show.
Sajak’s co-host, Vanna White, who has been turning letters on the show since 1982, said that she will miss working with him and that they have developed a close friendship over the years. She also said that she respects his decision and that she hopes to continue working on the show after he leaves.
“Pat is more than a colleague, he’s a dear friend,” White said. “We’ve shared so many laughs and memories on and off the set. He’s a true professional and a class act. I wish him all the best in his retirement.”
The producers of ‘Wheel of Fortune’ have not yet announced who will replace Sajak as the host. They said that they will conduct a nationwide search for his successor and that they will honor his legacy and contribution to the show.
“Pat Sajak is an icon of American television and a part of our cultural fabric,” they said in a statement. “He has been a tremendous asset to our show and we thank him for his dedication, passion and humor. He will always be a part of our ‘Wheel of Fortune’ family.”