After more than four decades as the beloved host of “Wheel of Fortune,” Pat Sajak announced his official retirement on June 12. In a tweet, he shared that the upcoming 41st season, set to begin in September, will be his last. Pat expressed gratitude for the wonderful ride and hinted at more to say in the coming months.
Fans were quick to respond, expressing a mix of sadness and congratulations on social media. Many thanked him for being a national treasure and acknowledged his significant contribution to the show’s success.
While Pat is stepping down from his hosting role, he won’t be leaving the “Wheel of Fortune” family entirely. In an official statement, it was revealed that he would take on a new role behind the scenes as a consultant for three years following his last year of hosting. Sony Pictures Television expressed gratitude for Pat’s outstanding career and looked forward to celebrating it in the upcoming season.
Pat had hinted at the possibility of his retirement in a September 2022 interview with Entertainment Tonight, acknowledging that the end was near. He expressed pride in being part of people’s living rooms for such a long time and emphasized that the show wouldn’t continue for another 40 years.
As fans prepare to bid farewell to a television icon, the announcement marks the end of an era for “Wheel of Fortune” and the beginning of a new chapter for Pat Sajak.