Vanna White, the iconic letter-turner of “Wheel of Fortune,” is contemplating her future on the show following the retirement of her longtime co-host, Pat Sajak. After 41 seasons together, Sajak’s departure has left White uncertain about continuing without him. White, a staple on the show since 1982, faces challenges with the new host, Ryan Seacrest.
According to a source from the Daily Mail, White, 67, is struggling with the transition. “It is incredibly challenging for her to continue without Pat,” the source revealed. “A part of her is tempted to leave earlier.” Despite her contract running until 2026, White is reportedly thinking about an early departure due to the difficulties adapting to Seacrest’s new dynamic.
The insider further mentioned that White and Seacrest struggle to get along on set. “She just doesn’t connect with Ryan the way she did with Pat, and no one really expected her to,” the source commented. A source close to Seacrest denied the claims, stating, “There is no truth to this story. Ryan and Vanna have started working together and are having a great time on set.”
White extended her contract through the 2025-2026 season after a prolonged salary dispute, securing a substantial pay increase. However, sources suggest that White feels she has devoted her entire life to the show and is ready for it to move in a new direction to appeal to a younger demographic. This change, she believes, would require a younger female host to take her place alongside Seacrest.
Pat Sajak, who filmed his final episode on June 7, expressed his deep appreciation for White, calling her his “professional ‘other half.'” In an emotional goodbye, Sajak remarked, “We’ve experienced many changes in our lives over the years but have always supported each other. Although I will greatly miss working with her, I find comfort in knowing we live only about five miles apart. So, we’ll still see each other often. She’s a remarkable woman, and I know everyone is happy she’ll be returning next season.”
Seacrest, set to take over as host for Season 42 in September, expressed his enthusiasm about collaborating with White. “This is fantastic news,” Seacrest remarked. “Vanna has been a cornerstone of the show and a presence in our homes for many years. I’ve been eagerly anticipating working with her, and now that it’s official, I can say, ‘Congratulations, Vanna.’ I’m looking forward to it.”
White confessed that Sajak’s retirement made her contemplate her own departure from the show but has said she is not ready. She said, “I can’t imagine doing the show without him after 41 years. It’s like reading a great book—it has to end eventually. This has been the best book I’ve ever read.”
Despite the ongoing rumors and speculations, White’s commitment to “Wheel of Fortune” remains strong, at least for now. Fans are eagerly awaiting the premiere of Season 42 in September to see how the new dynamic between White and Seacrest will unfold.
