Pat Sajak, the longtime host of “Wheel of Fortune,” will conclude his four-decade tenure as the show’s host after the 2023-24 season.

Sajak confirmed his decision in a statement on Monday, June 12, announcing that the upcoming 41st season, commencing in September, will be his final one. Following his departure from the on-camera role, Sajak will continue as a consultant to the show for three years.

Sajak, 76, has been an integral part of Wheel of Fortune since it started in 1983, hosting the syndicated version of the popular game show. Before that, he hosted a daytime edition on NBC from 1981 to 1989. Alongside co-host Vanna White, Sajak has become one of the most enduring and recognizable faces in the history of television game shows. His retirement marks the end of a remarkable era for Wheel of Fortune.

Sony Pictures Television Executive Vice President of game shows, Suzanne Prete, expressed gratitude for Sajak’s contributions, acknowledging his 40-year tenure as the show’s host and highlighting his immense entertainment value to millions of viewers across America. 

Pat Sajak’s journey with Wheel of Fortune began when he was offered the hosting position for the NBC daytime version in 1981 while working as a weatherman at KNBC in Los Angeles. A year later, Vanna White joined him, and together they became the iconic faces of the syndicated evening version of Wheel of Fortune in 1983. The show has maintained its popularity over the years and continues to attract an average of over nine million viewers weekly.

Throughout his illustrious career, Sajak has received accolades for his contributions to the game show industry, including three Daytime Emmy Awards for outstanding game show host. The 76-year-old received a Lifetime Achievement award at the Daytime Emmys alongside the late Alex Trebek, the host of Jeopardy! in 2011. Sajak and White also host ABC’s primetime Celebrity Wheel of Fortune, which will enter its fourth season in the fall.