Pat Sajak has wrapped up his long career as host of "Wheel of Fortune," leaving with his reputation and ratings "intact."
His last episode aired June 7, almost a year after announcing his departure on June 12, 2023. He's already lined up his next gig.
"Unlike other 'family room stars' who saw their popularity crash, Sajak is leaving with his reputation and ratings solid," said branding expert Doug Eldridge of Achilles PR to Fox News Digital.
"He'll always attract interest, whatever he does, because of his fame and popularity — and they are not the same."
"Actors and media personalities often fear being typecast, limiting future creativity if tied to one role. But for Sajak, those checks and fees make it worth it. He’ll always be a returning champion."
Sajak’s next role is in the play "Prescription: Murder," running from July 31 to Aug. 10, 2025.
He will play a psychiatrist plotting with his mistress to kill his wife, pursued by an LAPD lieutenant, played by Hawaii news anchor Joe Moore at the Hawaii Theatre Center in Honolulu.
"Pat Sajak, having retired from ‘Wheel of Fortune’ after 41 seasons, will return with Joe Moore in the original Columbo mystery ‘Prescription: Murder’ to support the Hawaii Theatre Center," stated the theater on its website.
"Moving on to his next project is expected from a celebrity like him, as people are eager to see the next phase of his career," said Kathy Fielder, president and CEO of Kathy Fielder Design.
"Pat attracts a diverse audience, from young to old. Not one to rest, Sajak embraces new challenges, and I’m sure the play ‘Prescription Murder’ in Hawaii will be an exciting new chapter for him. 'Break a leg,' Pat!"
In 2023, Sajak tweeted that it’s time to retire from hosting. "Well, the time has come. I’ve decided that our 41st season, starting in September, will be my last."
"It’s been a wonderful ride, and I’ll have more to say soon. Many thanks to you all. (It’ll keep the clickbait sites busy!)"
Sajak began hosting "Wheel of Fortune" in 1981. The show first aired in 1975 with Chuck Woolery and Susan Stafford.
Though he has his next job lined up, it’s not out of necessity. Beauty and wellness expert Rebecca Hatch Black says he has nothing to "prove."
"Pat should now do what brings him the most happiness and joy," Black noted. "He’s given us happiness for years. This is his time to do something for himself."
Ryan Seacrest will take over as the host of "Wheel of Fortune."
The show announced on Twitter in 2023, "It’s official! Starting in 2024, @RyanSeacrest will be the new host of Wheel of Fortune. Welcome, Ryan!"
"I’m humbled to follow in Pat Sajak's footsteps," Seacrest said in a statement. "Watching Pat and Vanna for 40 years has been a joy. I look forward to learning from Pat during this transition."
