Pat Sajak, who has become one of the most recognizable faces of American television as the host of “Wheel of Fortune” since 1981, announced Monday that he will retire next year.
“The time has come,” said Sajak, 76. twitter. “We have decided that the 41st season, which starts in September, will be the last.”
Over the 40-plus years Sajak has hosted the show, more than 10,000 people have auditioned for “Wheel of Fortune,” and the show attracts more than 26 million viewers each week. Sony Pictures Televisionthe studio that owns it.
Suzanne Plate, executive vice president of game programming at Sony Pictures Television, said in a statement Monday night that the studio was “extremely grateful to have Pat as our host over the years. I am proud of it,” he said.
“We look forward to honoring his outstanding career throughout next season,” Prete said.
Prete said Sajak agreed to continue as a consultant for three years after the final season.
It was unclear who would take over the hosting duties after Mr. Sajak retired.
Sajak’s longtime co-host Vanna White did not post a comment on social media Monday night. She briefly replaced Sajak in 2019 when he needed emergency surgery to clear an intestinal obstruction.
While Ms. White stood in for her daughter, Mr. Sajak, Maggie Sajak, took over Mr. White’s puzzle board business. Sajak is the show’s social correspondent and contributes digital content.
Created by Merv Griffin in 1975, the show, in which participants competed for cash prizes by guessing word puzzles, has earned more than $250 million since its premiere, according to Sony.
