Who Will Replace Pat Sajak on Wheel of Fortune?

Who Will Replace Pat Sajak on 'Wheel of Fortune'?

Ryan Seacrest is set to replace Pat Sajak as the host of 'Wheel of Fortune'. Seacrest was only 7 years old when Sajak began hosting the show in 1981, and will take over after Sajak's 41-season tenure.

Ryan Seacrest, born in 1974, will officially start his new role as the host in September. Seacrest expressed his gratitude and excitement about stepping into Sajak's shoes, acknowledging the joy and comfort that Sajak and co-host Vanna White have brought to viewers for four decades.

Ryan Seacrest has a long history in show business. He has hosted various programs, including 'Live with Kelly and Ryan', 'Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve', and 'American Idol'. Seacrest began his hosting career on the game show 'Click' in 1997, which was created by Merv Griffin, the original creator of 'Wheel of Fortune'.

In preparation for his new role, Seacrest has been studying the 'Wheel of Fortune' rulebook and familiarizing himself with the game's scenarios. He aims to continue the tradition of spinning the wheel and working alongside Vanna White, ensuring a smooth transition and maintaining the show's legacy.

Ryan Seacrest is excited to take on the challenge and honor the legacy of Pat Sajak. With decades of experience in hosting various high-profile events and shows, Seacrest is well-equipped to bring his unique style to 'Wheel of Fortune and carry on the tradition of this beloved game show.

Pat Sajak's Journey on 'Wheel of Fortune'

In 1981, Merv Griffin asked Pat Sajak if he wanted to take over as the host of 'Wheel of Fortune' from Chuck Woolery. However, Fred Silverman, the president of NBC at the time, rejected the idea, believing Sajak was too local. Griffin insisted and stopped new tapings until Sajak was hired. This issue was resolved when Silverman was replaced by Brandon Tartikoff. Sajak, who had previously hosted two game show pilots in 1980, 'Press Your Luck' and 'Puzzlers', accepted the role.

From 1983 to 1989, Sajak hosted both the daytime and evening versions of 'Wheel of Fortune', and he continues to host the evening version. In 2018, Sajak became the longest-running game show host, surpassing Bob Barker, and was recognized by the Guinness World Records in 2019.

Sajak has served as an external director of Eagle Publishing and a board member for the Claremont Institute. Sajak also appeared on the sitcom 'The King of Queens' in 2001 and began writing for the National Review Online in 2010.

Retirement Announcement

Since 2020, Sajak has been credited as a Consulting Producer of 'Wheel of Fortune'. He and Vanna White have also hosted 'Primetime Celebrity Wheel of Fortune' on ABC since 2021. In September 2021, they signed on to continue hosting through the 2023-24 season.

Sajak voiced a character in the 'Muppets Haunted Mansion' special in 2021 and has been a frequent narrator at Disney's Candlelight Processional. In June 2023, Sajak announced his retirement from 'Wheel of Fortune' after the 41st season, with Ryan Seacrest set to be his successor.

Pat Sajak's Net Worth

Pat Sajak is a well-known TV personality, actor, and game show host, who has a net worth of $75 million. He is best recognized for his long-time role as the host of "Wheel of Fortune", a position he has held since 1981. For his work on the show, Pat earns an annual salary of $15 million.

Pat Sajak's yearly salary for hosting "Wheel of Fortune" is $14 million, while his co-host, Vanna White, earns $10 million. The show tapes only four days a month, with six shows filmed each day. Taping occurs on two Thursdays and two Fridays.