Who will host ‘Wheel of Fortune’ after Pat Sajak?
Friday marked the last time longtime “Wheel of Fortune” icon Pat Sajak hosted the popular television game show, begging the question of who will take over after once he retires.
The final show also brings the end to a career spanning 41 years and over 8,000 episodes. Friday’s episode, which opened with a clip of Sajak’s first time hosting the vibrant game show, ended with a farewell message from the beloved host.
He called it an “incredible privilege to be invited into millions of homes, night after night, year after year, decade after decade,” according to reporting from The Associated Press.
The 77-year-old’s departure ushers in a new era of for “Wheel of Fortune” super fans, as another iconic tv host takes the reins: Ryan Seacrest.
The longtime “American Idol” presenter inked a deal with Sony Pictures Television last year to take over for Sajak. His first episode as host will premiere in September.
“I’m truly humbled to be stepping into the footsteps of the legendary Pat Sajak,” Seacrest said in a statement last year.
“I can’t wait to continue the tradition of spinning the wheel and working alongside the great Vanna White,” he added.
White, who co-hosted the show alongside Sajak for more than 40 years, paid tribute to her former colleague in Friday comments.
“As this chapter of our lives is coming to an end, I know you’ll still be close by. You’re like a brother to me and I consider you a true lifelong friend who I will always adore,” she said, according to the AP. “I love you, Pat.”
As Seacrest prepares to take over, Sajak shared his own gratitude on social media platform X, writing “Thank you all so very much.”
Besides “American Idol,” Seacrest has hosted several other shows, including the radio program “On Air,” the annual “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve” and “Live with Kelly and Ryan.”
Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
