On December 2, 2024, Pat Sajak made his return to television by hosting a special holiday episode of “Celebrity Wheel of Fortune” on ABC. This event marks his first time returning as host after retiring from the regular series in June 2024, which marked the end of an impressive career that lasted over 41 years.
Sajak, during his time as a host, made “Wheel of Fortune” a well-known show, earning him 19 Daytime Emmy nominations and three wins, one of which was a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2024. He also holds a Guinness World Record for the longest career as a game show host, cementing his place as a beloved figure in television history.
The special holiday episode saw Sajak team up with his long-time co-host, Vanna White, to deliver a festive and nostalgic experience. The episode featured celebrity contestants Chance the Rapper, Dionne Warwick, and Lil Jon, all competing for their selected charities. Chance the Rapper was representing SocialWorks, a nonprofit that aids the youth of Chicago, Illinois, via arts and education. Dionne Warwick represented the North Jersey Community Research Initiative, an organization dedicated to HIV/AIDS research and prevention. Lil Jon played for the Open Paths Counseling Center, a provider of mental health support services.
In a moment of amusement, Sajak made a playful imitation of Lil Jon’s well-known “Yeah!” catchphrase, eliciting laughter from the rapper and delighting the audience. This moment showcased Sajak’s ability to add humor to any situation.
Chance the Rapper emerged as the victor in the competition, solving puzzles proficiently and advancing to the Bonus Round with a total of $20,500 in his winnings. By the end of the night, he had won a total of $139,300 for SocialWorks, greatly benefiting its cause. Both Dionne Warwick and Lil Jon also made significant contributions to their respective charities.
Despite Ryan Seacrest becoming the new host of the regular series, Sajak’s role remains crucial to the franchise. The plan is for Sajak to host one final season of the celebrity spin-off in 2025. The holiday special episode will also be rebroadcast on December 11, 2024, for those who missed the first airing.
The upcoming season of “Celebrity Wheel of Fortune” is set to feature a diverse lineup of stars, including Rainn Wilson, Ellie Kemper, Josh Gad, and Tiffany Haddish. The show will air weekly episodes on Monday nights at 9 p.m. ET.
Sajak’s return was more than just a television event, it was a celebration of his lasting legacy. His blend of professionalism, humor, and warmth has left a lasting impact on the game show genre, reaffirming his status as a cherished figure in American entertainment.
