Vanna White Emotional as Pat Sajak Bids Wheel of Fortune Goodbye

When we think about things that have shaped our childhood, music, games, friends, and parents no doubt come to mind. But TV game shows should also be on that list. Indeed, one of the most enduring shows on TV is up for a major change as Pat Sajak bids goodbye to his hosting job at Wheel of Fortune.

After hosting a show that has made its way into so many of our homes, Sajak left Wheel of Fortune for good last June 7. 

Vanna White, who co-hosted with Sajak for 41 years, was visibly moved. In a short Instagram tribute video, White addressed Sajak, saying, “I can’t believe that tomorrow is our last show together.”

“I don’t know how to put into words what these past 41 years have meant to me, but I’m gonna try. Eight thousand episodes went by like that,” she said emotionally, snapping her fingers.

The 67-year-old recalled how Sajak welcomed her to the show all those years ago even though she was “so green.” According to her, Sajak made her feel comfortable and confident.

“You made me who I am,” White said to him. “You really did.”

The game show co-host recounted how they grew up together in front of audiences and behind the scenes. “And as much fun as we had on camera, those memories, milestones, and life events we shared with our families outside the studio are my favorite,” she narrated.

As she looked back on their lengthy friendship, she remembered how their children grew up together, how they traveled the world, shared countless meals, cried, laughed, and celebrated.

“Oh, gosh, what an incredible and unforgettable journey we’ve had. And I’ve enjoyed every minute of it with you,” White reflected.

“As this chapter of our lives is coming to an end, I know you’ll still be close by,” she said, referring to Sajak as a “brother” and “lifelong friend.”

Sajak, who is now 77 years old, declared that he was retiring in June 2023. Ryan Seacrest, who hosts the hit show American Idol, will be co-hosting Wheel of Fortune with White. 

Vanna White Appears on American Idol

To publicize their upcoming collaboration, White made a cameo appearance on a recent American Idol episode. During the reality show, Seacrest introduced her as a “national treasure.” 

After going onstage, White said, “I am so enjoying this. There are so many talented people here. I cannot believe it! It’s so much fun!”

He invited her to introduce the upcoming contestant and in traditional Wheel of Fortune style, she began flipping over giant letters to spell the name of the next performer.

Before the show, Seacrest teased the public with news of his new colleague on Good Morning America. “A legend, a household name, a superstar named Vanna White is making a cameo on American Idol. She’s watched for years and she’s gonna co-host a little bit with me on the next Idol Monday,” he said.

As for Sajak, he’s already signed up for a play called Prescription Murder. The production will run from July 31 to August 10, 2025, in Honolulu’s Hawaii Theater.