Iconic game show host Pat Sajak recently opened up about his decision to step away from Wheel of Fortune after over four decades at the helm of the popular primetime game show.
In an interview with his daughter Maggie Sajak on Good Morning America this week, the 77-year-old Sajak explained his reasoned approach to timing his retirement after such a historic television tenure.
“I’ve always said this to you, you’ve heard me say this dozens of times, I’d rather leave a couple of years too early than a couple of years too late,” Sajak told his daughter, who conducted the farewell interview.
“Could I still do it? Yeah, I think I could for a while,” he admitted. “There’s also some other things in life that we’d like to do, and I’m enjoying this last year. It’s been a great 40 years, and I’m looking forward to whatever’s ahead.”
Sajak announced last June that the show’s upcoming 41st season would be his final go-around as host, with longtime co-host Vanna White remaining on board.
American Idol’s Ryan Seacrest has been tapped as Sajak’s replacement when the show returns this fall.
Wheel of Fortune pic.twitter.com/pQeTpWsPx7
— Ryan Seacrest (@RyanSeacrest) June 27, 2023
As his final string of episodes winds down this week, Sajak reflected on the iconic status Wheel of Fortune has attained through its decades-long run airing in millions of households.
“I do know that somewhere along the line we became more than a popular show, we became part of the popular culture, and more importantly, we became part of people’s lives,” the veteran host said. “And that’s been awfully gratifying.”
While admitting he’s felt “a little bit wistful” in these last goes at the letter board, Sajak said he was at peace with his decision to depart the show’s iconic set while still on top.
“You know, this was announced a long time ago, almost a year ago,” he reflected. “So I’ve had time to sort of get used to it, and it’s been a little bit wistful and all that, but I’m enjoying it and taking it in and reflecting on a great run.”
As he prepares to spin the iconic wheel one final time this Friday, the TV legend leaves behind a virtually unmatched legacy having hosted over 40 seasons and nearly 8,000 episodes of one of the longest-running game shows in history.
Sajak’s effortless rapport with co-host White made them a winning primetime pair for generations of viewers. He will be missed by fans.