Ryan Seacrest, the newly appointed host of “Wheel of Fortune,” has paid homage to his predecessor, Pat Sajak, following Sajak’s final episode as host. Seacrest’s tribute celebrated Sajak’s 41-year tenure and his iconic partnership with Vanna White, acknowledging their impact on American television.
“Pat, kudos on an amazing journey with ‘Wheel of Fortune’! Your dedication, charisma, and humor have turned the show into a cherished staple of American TV for many years,” Seacrest wrote on Instagram, accompanied by a photo of himself, Sajak, and White. “Your collaboration with Vanna has been legendary, creating countless memorable moments for viewers. You’ve set a high bar for hosts everywhere, marking the end of an era. Wishing you all the best in your future endeavors!”
Sajak began hosting “Wheel of Fortune” in 1983 and ended his tenure on June 7, 2024. His emotional farewell highlighted the privilege of being a household favorite for over four decades. “It has been an extraordinary honor to be welcomed into millions of homes every night over the decades,” Sajak stated in his farewell address. “At some point, we evolved from just a popular show into a significant part of popular culture and, more importantly, an integral part of people’s lives. That has been immensely rewarding.”
Vanna White, who has co-hosted with Sajak since 1982, also praised her long-time colleague. In a heartfelt social media post, she expressed her gratitude and admiration, saying, “Pat has been more than just a co-host; he’s been a dear friend and a guiding light. His ability to make everyone feel at home is unmatched.”
The partnership between Sajak and White has been a cornerstone of “Wheel of Fortune,” with their chemistry and camaraderie becoming a defining feature of the show. Despite working together for over four decades, there has never been any public indication of jealousy or conflict between them, a rarity in the entertainment industry.
Ryan Seacrest, who is known for his roles in “American Idol” and “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve,” expressed his humility and excitement about stepping into Sajak’s shoes. “I am genuinely honored to follow in the footsteps of the legendary Pat Sajak,” Seacrest remarked. “Like the rest of America, I feel it’s been a privilege and a sheer delight to watch Pat and Vanna on our TV screens for an incredible 40 years, bringing smiles to our faces and making us feel at home each night.”
Sajak’s departure from “Wheel of Fortune” does not mark the end of his career. He is set to star in a new take on the play “Prescription: Murder,” which will run from July 31 to August 10, 2025, in Honolulu, Hawaii. This new chapter in his career is a testament to his enduring passion for entertainment and ability to adapt and thrive in different roles.
The transition marks a significant moment in television history as one of the longest-running game shows undergoes a major change in its hosting lineup. However, with Seacrest at the helm and White continuing her role, the show is poised to maintain its beloved status among audiences.