Here’s How Pat Sajak is Returning to WHEEL OF FORTUNE

Published: July 15, 2024

Here’s How Pat Sajak is Returning to WHEEL OF FORTUNE

By Movieguide® Contributor

Pat Sajak may have left the classic syndicated WHEEL OF FORTUNE show, but he’s coming back to host CELEBRITY WHEEL OF FORTUNE in the fall.

“The news about Sajak and CELEBRITY WHEEL OF FORTUNE was part of ABC’s announcement of its fall premiere schedule,” The Hollywood Reporter said July 10. “The network will stagger its rollout, with a few shows — DANCING WITH THE STARS, new drama HIGH POTENTIAL and THE GOLDEN BACHELORETTE — debuting the week after the Emmys (which ABC will air on Sept. 15), and holding others, including ABBOTT ELEMENTARY, until October.”

“The network has billed it as his ‘final spin hosting CELEBRITY WHEEL OF FORTUNE.’ The CELEBRITY hosting job, which is separate from Sajak’s long-running duties on the original syndicated series, is one that he has performed dozens of times,” the Los Angeles Times reported.

On CELBRITY WHEEL OF FORTUNE, well-known contests compete to win $1 million for the charity of their choice. This will be the show’s fifth season and will air on ABC Oct. 7 at 8 p.m.

“Sajak’s final episode as host of WHEEL OF FORTUNE aired June 7 — though, if this news is any indication, he couldn’t stay away for long. He first announced his retirement in June 2023,” Entertainment Weekly said.

Movieguide® reported on Sajak’s last WHEEL OF FORTUNE episode:

WHEEL OF FORTUNE’s long-time host, Pat Sajak, is proud to have kept the show family-friendly as he retires from his role and says farewell.

“Well, the time has come to say goodbye,” he said on Friday’s last episode with him. “I have a few thanks and acknowledgments before I go, and I want to start with all watching out there. It’s been an incredible privilege to be invited into millions of homes night after night, year after year, decade after decade.”

“I always felt that the privilege came with the responsibility to keep this daily half hour a safe place for family fun,” he continued. “No social issues, no politics, nothing embarrassing I hope, just a game.”

Ryan Seacrest will replace Sajak on the syndicated show alongside co-host Vanna White. Sajak will also serve as a consultant for the show for the next three years.

On Instagram, Seacrest credited Sajak in a thoughtful post, “Pat, congratulations on an incredible run with Wheel of Fortune! Your dedication, charm, and wit have made the show a beloved part of American television for decades. Your partnership with Vanna has been nothing short of iconic, and together, you’ve created countless wonderful memories for viewers. You’ve set the standard for hosts everywhere, and this marks the end of an era. Best wishes for all your future endeavors!”