Pat Sajak, the iconic host of ‘Wheel of Fortune’, has recently expressed that he believes the end is near for the long-running game show.
After an incredible four-decade tenure, Sajak, now 75, is preparing for his last spin on the popular series. In a recent interview with Entertainment Tonight, he shared his thoughts on the show’s longevity and what lies ahead for him.
“In most television shows by this time, you would have said, ‘That’s probably enough,’ but this show will not die,” Sajak said. ‘Wheel of Fortune’ first hit the airwaves in 1975, and Sajak joined the show in 1981.
Alongside his co-host Vanna White, who has been with the show since its inception, they have become the familiar faces that viewers associate with ‘Wheel of Fortune’.
Reflecting on his incredible journey, Sajak expressed his gratitude for the immense support and loyalty from the show’s fans. “It’s an honor to have been in people’s living rooms for that long.
People were out there welcoming us. We’re happy and proud,” he said. In addition to hosting the main show, Sajak also delights audiences with his banter on the celebrity spin-off ‘Celebrity Wheel of Fortune’, and he jokingly shared his desire to have Meryl Streep as a contestant.
As Sajak looks towards the future, he acknowledges the passage of time and the inevitable end of his time as the host of ‘Wheel of Fortune’.
“Years go by fast… We’re getting near the end. It’s been a long [time]. We’re not gonna do this for another 40 years. The end is near,” he said with a hint of nostalgia in his voice. While it may be the end of an era for Sajak, his contributions to the show will forever be remembered.
Sajak’s 40-year hosting anniversary in December was a momentous occasion celebrated with heartfelt tributes. His daughter, Maggie, took to Twitter to mark the milestone, sharing a throwback photo of her father hosting the very first episode in 1981.
“Happy 40th Wheel-iversary to this guy! On this day in 1981, @patsajak hosted his very first episode of @WheelofFortune… and the rest is history!” she tweeted. This anniversary serves as a testament to Sajak’s dedication and the enduring success of the show.
Throughout his illustrious career, Sajak has remained a constant fixture on ‘Wheel of Fortune’.
He has only stepped away from the series once, which was during his recovery from surgery for a blocked intestine. During this time, Vanna White had the opportunity to step into the role of host, showcasing her own talent and charisma.
As Pat Sajak prepares for his final farewell to ‘Wheel of Fortune’, it’s clear that his impact on the show and its devoted fanbase cannot be overstated.
His genuine appreciation for the opportunity to entertain millions of viewers for over four decades shines through in every episode. While the end may be near, Sajak’s legacy as the beloved host of ‘Wheel of Fortune’ will continue to live on. So, let’s savor these remaining moments and enjoy the ride until the final spin.
