“In most television shows by this time, you would have said, ‘That’s probably enough,’ but this show will not die,” said Pat Sajak, 75, to Entertainment Tonight. “Wheel of Fortune” began in 1975, with Sajak joining in 1981. Alongside co-host Vanna White, 65, he has become a familiar face to viewers for over four decades.
Reflecting on his future, Sajak mentioned, “It appears I may go before the show.” He added, “It’s an honor to have been in people’s living rooms for that long. People were out there welcoming us. We’re happy and proud.” Sajak also enjoys interacting with celebrities on the show’s spin-off, “Celebrity Wheel of Fortune,” hoping to someday host Meryl Streep.
Acknowledging the passage of time, Sajak said, “Years go by fast. We’re getting near the end. It’s been a long [time]. We’re not gonna do this for another 40 years. The end is near.”
Sajak marked his 40th hosting anniversary in December, celebrated by his daughter Maggie with a tweet: “Happy 40th Wheel-iversary to this guy!” Sajak has only taken a break from the series once, for surgery, during which White took over hosting duties.