After an impressive 40+ year run, Pat Sajak, the 76-year-old face of "Wheel of Fortune," recently reflected on his unexpectedly long tenure with a touch of humor. Responding to a social media query about what would most shock someone transported from 1981 to 2023, Sajak quipped, "That Pat Sajak was still hosting Wheel of Fortune." This sparked a wave of fan reactions, ranging from enthusiastic praise and expressions of sadness over his impending departure to more critical observations about his hosting style.
Sajak's upcoming retirement has prompted him to reminisce about his journey with the show. He recently paid tribute to the show's creator, Merv Griffin, acknowledging his gratitude for Griffin's unconventional decision to hire him, a then-unknown weatherman, back in 1981. This bold move paved the way for Sajak's remarkable career, taking over from Chuck Woolery and ultimately leading to his decision to retire after the 41st season.
Ryan Seacrest is set to take the reins from Sajak in September 2024. Seacrest expressed his humility and excitement about following in Sajak's footsteps, acknowledging the iconic duo's impact on television audiences over four decades. Sajak, in turn, shared his enthusiasm for passing the baton and looks forward to supporting Seacrest during the transition. Meanwhile, Vanna White, Sajak's longtime co-host, is reportedly negotiating a new contract and seeking a pay raise, demonstrating her commitment to continuing with the show.
