World News

Who Is Replacing Pat Sajak on ‘Wheel of Fortune’? New Host

The end of an era. On June 12, Pat Sajak announced plans to leave Wheel of Fortune after season 41. Amid the news of his exit, many loyal viewers were wondering who would be taking his place on the program. After rumors began swirling, the show’s new host for season 42 was officially announced on June 27. Scroll below to find out more about his replacement. 

Why Is Pat Sajak Leaving ‘Wheel of Fortune’?

Pat was named the official host of Wheel of Fortune in 1981 after Chuck Woolery left the show. Vanna White stepped into the cohost role in 1982. For more than four decades, they have solidified their status as one of TV’s most iconic duos and have built a lifelong friendship. 

Pat shockingly announced that he was leaving the syndicated competition series after a historic run. 

“Well, the time has come. I’ve decided that our 41st season, which begins in September, will be my last. It’s been a wonderful ride, and I’ll have more to say in the coming months. Many thanks to you all,” the beloved TV personality said in a statement to Closer.

Pat Sajak Net Worth: 'Wheel of Fortune' Host's Salary
Patrick Lewis/Starpix/Shutterstock

Though he is stepping away from the hosting role, Pat will still have some involvement in the series. 

“As the host of Wheel of Fortune, Pat has entertained millions of viewers across America for 40 amazing years. We are incredibly grateful and proud to have had Pat as our host for all these years and we look forward to celebrating his outstanding career throughout the upcoming season,” Suzanne Prete, Executive Vice President of Game Shows at Sony Pictures Television told Closer amid Pat’s retirement announcement.

She continued, “Pat has agreed to continue as a consultant on the show for three years following his last year hosting, so we’re thrilled to have him remaining close to the Wheel of Fortune family!”

Who Is Replacing Pat Sajak on ‘Wheel of Fortune’?

Ryan Seacrest confirmed he will be the new host of Wheel of Fortune in season 42.

“I’m truly humbled to be stepping into the footsteps of the legendary Pat Sajak. I can say, along with the rest of America, that it’s been a privilege and pure joy to watch Pat and Vanna on our television screens for an unprecedented 40 years, making us smile every night and feel right at home with them,” he wrote in a June 27 Instagram statement. “Pat, I love the way you’ve always celebrated the contestants and made viewers at home feel at ease. I look forward to learning everything I can from you during this transition.”

Prior to this announcement, there were several other guesses as to who would lead the series after Pat’s departure. Vanna was a top contender for the position. The letter-turner temporarily stepped into the lead hosting role in late 2019 when Pat underwent emergency surgery to correct a blocked intestine. She did a fantastic job, earning the praise of fans on Twitter. Her decades of experience on television and huge fan base made her a likely candidate. 

Other fans on Twitter previously speculated that Pat’s daughter, Maggie Sajak, would potentially win the hosting role. The youngest Sajak child currently serves as a social correspondent on Wheel of Fortune. Back when her dad was sick, Maggie stepped in as the letter-turner while Vanna took over the main hosting duties.

Ryan’s first episode as host will air next fall, with Pat’s full support.

“I’m looking forward to my final season starting this fall, and then handing over the car keys to Ryan Seacrest in September of 2024,” Pat tweeted on June 28. 

Related posts

Halle Berry’s Daughter Nahla Aubry: Rare Photos Growing Up 

BBC Brk News

Man with an Israeli flag is arrested and dragged away by police ahead of pro-Palestinian protests set to erupt at the Sydney Opera house as Anthony Albanese issues a desperate plea

BBC Brk News

Clapham chemical attacker Abdul Ezedi was last seen at Southwark Bridge two hours after attack which may have left mother part blind, police reveal – as man, 22, is arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender

BBC Brk News

Leave a Comment