Pat Sajak’s Final WHEEL OF FORTUNE Episode Will Air This Summer
By Movieguide® Contributor
Pat Sajak is preparing to step down from his role as WHEEL OF FORTUNE’s host this summer.
TVLine confirmed that Sajak will “take one last spin” as the popular game show’s host on June 7—almost exactly one year after he initially confirmed his decision to leave WHEEL OF FORTUNE.
“Well, the time has come. I’ve decided that our 41st season, which begins in September, will be my last,” Sajak posted on X last June. “It’s been a wonderful ride, and I’ll have more to say in the coming months. Many thanks to you all.”
Ryan Seacrest was named as Sajak’s successor. Movieguide® previously reported:
Ryan Seacrest has been named as the next host of WHEEL OF FORTUNE following longtime host Pat Sajak’s retirement.
“I’m truly humbled to be stepping into the footsteps of the legendary Pat Sajak,” Seacrest said in a statement about his new gig. “I can’t wait to continue the tradition of spinning the wheel and working alongside the great Vanna White.”
As his start date as WHEEL OF FORTUNE’s host approaches, Seacrest has been reflecting on Sajak’s legacy and how he will make his own mark on the game show.
“Well, no one can ever do what Pat has done. He is incredible,” Seacrest told PEOPLE. “He has made that show just something so very special for so long, and he has done such a seamless, remarkable job, so no one can be him. So do I feel pressure? Sure. People love watching him. I want them to keep love watching it, and I hope to do a great job as well.”
He added that he has been a fan of WHEEL OF FORTUNE “all my life and I’ve been watching it as much as I can” to prepare.
“I think that this is a show that means so much to a lot of people,” he continued. “It’s a part of their lives, they like to get together at the end of the day and try and solve the puzzles. And for me, it’s a chance to give away cash and prizes and work with the legendary Vanna White.”