Who is Replacing Pat Sajak on Wheel of Fortune? Why is Pat Sajak Leaving on Wheel of Fortune?
by Kowsalya
Updated Jul 07, 2023
Who is Replacing Pat Sajak on Wheel of Fortune?
Ryan Seacrest is replacing Pat Sajak on Wheel of Fortune. On June 27, Ryan Seacrest made a surprising announcement on Instagram, revealing that he would be taking over as the new host of the popular game show Wheel of Fortune, replacing the legendary Pat Sajak. In his heartfelt post, Ryan expressed his humility and gratitude for the opportunity to follow in Pat's footsteps.
"I am incredibly honored to step into the shoes of the iconic Pat Sajak," Ryan wrote. "For 40 years, Pat and Vanna have graced our television screens, bringing joy to viewers across America. It has been a privilege to witness their talent and feel at home with them every night."
Ryan went on to praise Pat for his ability to celebrate contestants and make viewers feel comfortable. He expressed his eagerness to learn from Pat during the transition, acknowledging that one of his first hosting jobs was on a game show called "Click" for Merv Griffin, making this opportunity a full circle moment for him.
The news of Ryan's selection as the new host came after several reports had named him as the frontrunner for the position. Kelly Ripa, Ryan's former co-star on Live, expressed her confidence in his abilities, stating that it made perfect sense for him to host and that she could envision him seamlessly fitting into the role.
Another name that had been mentioned as a potential host was Tom Bergeron, known for his work on Dancing With the Stars. However, Tom showed his support for Ryan, responding to a comment on Instagram jokingly suggesting that Ryan should get in shape for the Wheel of Fortune job.
Despite Pat's departure as the host, he will not be completely leaving the show. According to Deadline, Pat will continue to serve as a consultant for three years following his final episode, which is expected to air in June 2024, aligning with the show's usual schedule.
Sony Pictures Television's Suzanne Prete confirmed Pat's continued involvement in an official statement, expressing delight at his decision to remain close to the Wheel of Fortune family as a consultant.
Who is Taking Over for Pat Sajak?
Ryan Seacrest is taking over for Pat Sajak as the new host of the popular game show Wheel of Fortune. Sony Pictures Television made an official announcement on June 27, revealing that Ryan Seacrest would be assuming the role of the new host for the iconic game show "Wheel of Fortune," succeeding the legendary Pat Sajak. Seacrest, upon hearing the news, took to Twitter to share a statement expressing his deep humility and gratitude.
In his heartfelt message, Seacrest conveyed his sincere appreciation for the opportunity to follow in the footsteps of the esteemed Pat Sajak. He acknowledged the incredible impact that Pat and Vanna White, his co-host, have had on audiences for an unparalleled four decades. Seacrest described watching them on television as an absolute privilege, bringing joy and a sense of belonging to viewers every night.
Seacrest specifically addressed Pat in his statement, expressing admiration for the way he has always celebrated contestants and created a welcoming atmosphere for viewers. He eagerly expressed his desire to learn from Pat during the transition, emphasizing his readiness to absorb every bit of knowledge and expertise Pat can offer.
By sharing his gratitude and respect for Pat's legacy, Seacrest demonstrated his genuine appreciation for the opportunity to step into the role of "Wheel of Fortune" host. The announcement marked the beginning of a new chapter for the show, with Seacrest poised to bring his own unique style and charm to the iconic program.
Why is Pat Sajak Leaving on Wheel of Fortune?
The exact reason for Pat Sajak's departure from Wheel of Fortune remains unclear, he had been open about his contemplation of retirement for some time. In an interview with Entertainment Tonight in September 2022, he subtly hinted at his future on the game show.
Sajak acknowledged the passage of time, indicating that they were nearing the end of their tenure. He mentioned that it had been a long time and expressed that they wouldn't continue hosting for another 40 years. Despite this, he expressed gratitude for the honor of being welcomed into people's living rooms and being a part of their lives for such a lengthy period.
Vanna White also shared her thoughts on a future without them on Wheel of Fortune. In an interview with People in December 2022, she admitted that she didn't want to think about it and found the idea depressing. She expressed her love for the show and the incredible joy it brought her, emphasizing that it was a privilege to have a job she still loved after 40 years.
While Pat may no longer be seen as the host after the 2023-2024 season, he will not completely sever ties with Wheel of Fortune. According to Suzanne Prete, EVP of Game Shows at Sony Pictures Television, Pat will take on a different behind-the-scenes role as a consultant. This arrangement allows him to remain connected to the Wheel of Fortune family, and the show will continue to celebrate his remarkable career throughout the upcoming season.
Who is Pat Sajak?
Pat Sajak, born Patrick Leonard Sajdak on October 26, 1946, is a well-known American television personality, game show host, and occasional actor. Originally from Chicago, Illinois, Sajak embarked on his broadcasting career at a local radio station and later served as a disc jockey for the American Forces Vietnam Network during the Vietnam War.
His claim to fame is being the host of the popular American television game show, Wheel of Fortune, a position he has held since 1981. Sajak has been recognized for his contribution to the show, receiving 19 nominations for the Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Game Show Host and winning three times. In 2019, he even set a Guinness World Record for having the longest career as a game show host for the same show, surpassing the previous record set by Bob Barker.
In addition to his game show career, Sajak has made appearances in various films, television series, and game shows. Some notable credits include Airplane II: The Sequel, Days of Our Lives, and Rugrats. He also had his own late-night talk show on CBS from 1989 to 1990 and frequently served as a guest host for CNN's Larry King Live and the syndicated Live with Regis and Kelly.
Outside of entertainment, Sajak has been involved in different ventures. He served as an external director for Eagle Publishing, a conservative publishing house, and has written for publications such as the National Review Online and Ricochet. co. Sajak has also created several puzzle games, including "Lucky Letters," developed with puzzle developer David L. Hoyt.
Sajak has been married twice, with his current wife being Lesly Brown Sajak since 1989. They have two children together. In 2019, he underwent successful surgery for an intestinal blockage. As of 2021, Sajak has taken on the role of Consulting Producer for Wheel of Fortune and co-hosts Prime Time Celebrity Wheel of Fortune on ABC alongside his longtime colleague, Vanna White.
NAME
Pat Sajak
DATE OF BIRTH
October 26, 1946
AGE
76
BORN COUNTRY
Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
OCCUPATION
American television personality, game show host, and occasional actor.
SPOUSE
Sherrill Sajak
(m. 1979; div. 1986)
Lesly Brown (m. 1989)
CHILDREN
2; including Maggie
Who is Ryan Seacrest?
Ryan John Seacrest, born on December 24, 1974, is an American media personality, game show host, and producer. He has had a successful career in the entertainment industry, hosting and producing various shows.
Seacrest is widely known for his role as the co-host and executive producer of Live with Kelly and Ryan, as well as hosting popular media programs like American Idol, American Top 40, and On Air with Ryan Seacrest. Since 2006, he has been the co-host and executive producer of Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve, taking over from Dick Clark himself after his passing in 2012.
Seacrest has been recognized for his work, receiving multiple Emmy Award nominations for his hosting of American Idol from 2004 to 2013, and again in 2016. In 2010, he won an Emmy as a producer for Jamie Oliver's Food Revolution and received another nomination in 2012.
His talents also extend to hosting talk shows, as evidenced by his nominations for Live with Kelly and Ryan in the categories of Outstanding Talk Show Entertainment and Outstanding Entertainment Talk Show Host in 2018.
In an exciting development, it has been announced that in 2024, Seacrest will take on a new role as the host of Wheel of Fortune, succeeding the legendary Pat Sajak. This opportunity marks another milestone in Seacrest's career, showcasing his versatility and talent as a game show host.
NAME
Ryan Seacrest
DATE OF BIRTH
December 24, 1974
AGE
48
BORN COUNTRY
Atlanta, Georgia, U.S.
OCCUPATION
Media personality, producer
YEARS ACTIVE
1993–present
Who is Replacing Pat Sajak on Wheel of Fortune-FAQs
Ryan Seacrest is replacing Pat Sajak on Wheel of Fortune.
Ryan Seacrest is taking over for Pat Sajak as the new host of the popular game show Wheel of Fortune.
The exact reason for Pat Sajak's departure from Wheel of Fortune remains unclear, he had been open about his contemplation of retirement for some time. In an interview with Entertainment Tonight in September 2022, he subtly hinted at his future on the game show.
Pat Sajak, born Patrick Leonard Sajdak on October 26, 1946, is a well-known American television personality, game show host, and occasional actor.
Ryan John Seacrest, born on December 24, 1974, is an American media personality, game show host, and producer. He has had a successful career in the entertainment industry, hosting and producing various shows.