Pat Sajak Retires After 41 Years on Wheel of Fortune—A Bittersweet Farewell to a TV Icon

The End of an Era: Pat Sajak Retires from Wheel of Fortune—Fans React

Pat Sajak has officially retired from Wheel of Fortune after an incredible 41 years. He first shared the news back in June 2023, calling his time on the show “a wonderful ride.” His final season ran through 2023–2024, with his emotional farewell episode airing on June 7, 2024, bringing an end to one of the most iconic runs in TV history.

Pat started hosting Wheel of Fortune in 1981, and his easygoing style and playful banter quickly turned the show into something more than just a game—it became a nightly comfort for millions of families. Many viewers grew up solving puzzles with Pat and Vanna, then introduced the show to their own children, making Wheel a tradition across generations.

During his four decades at the helm, Pat earned three Daytime Emmy Awards, received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and set a Guinness World Record for the longest career hosting the same game show. But beyond the awards, it was his ability to make people feel welcome—like they were part of the fun—that kept audiences coming back year after year.

Fans Celebrate Pat’s Incredible Run

As his final season approached, fans across the country flooded social media with memories of favorite puzzles, hilarious contestant moments, and stories of watching Wheel with grandparents or parents. Some shared that they learned the alphabet and spelling from watching the show with Pat as a kid.

During his emotional farewell episode, Pat addressed viewers directly. He told them, “Thank you for allowing me into your homes every night. It’s been an incredible privilege,” and said his goal had always been to “keep the show light, fun, and a safe place for families to gather.” The video of his goodbye, now available online, shows Pat’s trademark humor and heartfelt gratitude as he reflects on the journey that began in 1981.

Watch Pat’s Farewell and Career Tribute here — the official Wheel of Fortune video captures touching highlights, behind-the-scenes clips, and Pat’s emotional speech.

What Comes Next for Pat—and Wheel of Fortune?

Even though he’s stepped away from the hosting spotlight, Pat isn’t disappearing. He’s staying on as a consultant for three years to help new host Ryan Seacrest settle into the job. Ryan officially took over with season 42 in September 2024, and so far, fans have been curious but supportive, eager to see how he makes the role his own while honoring Pat’s legacy.

Pat also continued to host Celebrity Wheel of Fortune until his final episode in June 2025. According to interviews, he wanted to see the show through one more year of special episodes before fully passing the torch.

He’s also keeping busy with other passions. This summer, Pat is starring in a community theater production of Prescription: Murder in Hawaii, marking a return to his early love of acting. Friends say he’s been having a blast rehearsing and performing, getting to explore something creative and totally different from game show hosting.

Why Pat’s Retirement Feels Like the End of an Era

When he’s not on stage, Pat is soaking up family time—doing crossword puzzles, visiting with his grandkids, and enjoying quiet evenings with his wife, Lesly. He’s also staying connected with Wheel behind the scenes, lending advice to the production team as the show navigates its new era.

Pat’s retirement truly feels like the end of an era. For over 40 years, he was more than just a game show host; he was a comforting presence who brought families together and made countless evenings a little brighter. His jokes, warm smile, and ability to handle everything—from awkward contestant answers to tense final spins—turned Wheel of Fortune into a show that felt like home.

Fans and colleagues alike have praised him not just as a host but as a professional who always treated everyone on set with respect and kindness. Vanna White, Pat’s longtime co-host, got emotional herself during his last week, saying on-air, “You’ve made this show more special than I ever could have imagined.”

What’s your favorite memory of Pat on Wheel of Fortune? Did you have a favorite puzzle moment, funny contestant, or episode you’ll never forget? Share it with us below!

Here’s to Pat enjoying a well-deserved next chapter—and to the laughs, lessons, and memories he created for generations of fans.