Longtime Wheel of Fortune host Pat Sajak announced on Monday that he would be stepping away from the show after 40 seasons. The 76-year-old Sajak has been a staple of the popular game show since its debut in 1983, and his retirement will leave a big hole to fill.
So who will be the next host of Wheel of Fortune? The speculation was aroused when Sajak wrote: “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. (If nothing else, it’ll keep the clickbait sites busy!)”
Celebrities like Ryan Seacrest, Sajak’s longtime co-host Vanna White, and Whoopi Goldberg are just a few of the names being floated, Fox News reported.
Seacrest seems to be most likely given that he’s got a lot of experience as the host of “American Idol,” “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve,” and as host of the podcast “On Air With Ryan Seacrest.” He even stepped down as cohost of “Live With Kelly and Ryan,” leaving him technically free for a new hosting gig.
But the oddsmakers at BetOnline think Seacrest is second in line behind Vanna White. Sajak’s daughter Maggie Sajak is also in the running, according to BetOnline.
Of course, there are other names that could be in the mix. The producers of Wheel of Fortune will likely be looking for someone who can bring a fresh perspective to the show, while also honoring the legacy of Pat Sajak. It will be interesting to see who they ultimately choose.
In the meantime, Sajak’s fans can still enjoy his presence on the show for the next year. He’ll be wrapping up his 40th season in 2024, and he’s said that he’s looking forward to spending more time with his family and traveling.
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. (If nothing else, it’ll keep the clickbait sites busy!)
— Pat Sajak (@patsajak) June 12, 2023
