Vanna White, the longstanding co-host of “Wheel of Fortune,” is reportedly reconsidering her role on the program following the recent retirement of Pat Sajak, her co-host of 41 seasons. With Sajak’s exit, White is said to be uneasy about continuing without him. The transition to working with the new host, Ryan Seacrest, has also presented challenges.
A Daily Mail source suggested that White, 67, is finding the adjustment difficult. “It is incredibly challenging for her to continue without Pat,” the source disclosed. “A part of her is tempted to leave earlier.” Although her contract extends to 2026, White is said to be contemplating an early exit due to struggles adapting to Seacrest’s approach.
The unnamed insider also indicated that White and Seacrest, 49, have difficulty connecting on set. “She just doesn’t connect with Ryan the way she did with Pat, and no one really expected her to,” the source added. However, an individual close to Seacrest refuted these allegations, stating, “There is no truth to this story. Ryan and Vanna have started working together and are having a great time on set.”
White renegotiated her contract through the 2025-2026 season after a prolonged discussion regarding her salary, leading to a significant pay increase. Nevertheless, it is suggested that White, who has spent her entire career on the show, is open to a shift in the program’s direction to cater to a younger audience. This change, she believes, might necessitate a younger female host to work alongside Seacrest.
Pat Sajak, whose final episode aired on June 7, expressed his profound gratitude towards White, referring to her as his “professional other half.'” In his farewell, Sajak noted, “We’ve experienced many changes in our lives over the years but have always supported each other. Although I will greatly miss working with her, I find comfort in knowing we live only about five miles apart. So, we’ll still see each other often. She’s a remarkable woman, and I know everyone is happy she’ll be returning next season.”
Seacrest, who is set to commence his hosting duties for Season 42 in September, expressed his excitement about working with White. “This is fantastic news,” Seacrest said. “Vanna has been a cornerstone of the show and a presence in our homes for many years. I’ve been eagerly anticipating working with her, and now that it’s official, I can say, ‘Congratulations, Vanna.’ I’m looking forward to it.”
White admitted that Sajak’s retirement led her to consider her own future on the show. She spoke positively of Sajak, but said, “I can’t imagine doing the show without him after 41 years. It’s like reading a great book—it has to end eventually. This has been the best book I’ve ever read.”
Despite the rumors and speculation, White’s commitment to “Wheel of Fortune” appears to remain firm for the time being. Fans are keenly anticipating the premiere of Season 42 in September to observe the new dynamic between White and Seacrest.
