Pat Sajak, the charismatic host of “Wheel of Fortune” for 41 years, brought a touch of his trademark humor to one of his final shows.
In a recent episode, contestant Allison faced the high-stakes pressure of the bonus round with the puzzling phrase: “_ _ _ T S _ N D _ _ G _ R E S.” Initially guessing “Coats And Hangers,” she corrected to “Boats” before the buzzer confirmed her error.
The correct answer, “Facts And Figures,” elicited a playful remark from Sajak, “Ooooh, you were so not close.”
This moment marked a bittersweet evening on the iconic game show, which is preparing to bid farewell to Sajak while welcoming Ryan Seacrest as the new host this fall. Throughout the evening, Sajak’s lighthearted jests amidst the supportive crowd underscored the show’s enduring warmth and camaraderie, a hallmark that he and his co-host, Vanna White, have nurtured over decades.
Although Allison missed out on the $40,000 prize, she didn’t leave empty-handed. Sajak praised her performance, and she departed with a commendable $14,400. “You did very well,” Sajak assured her, a sentiment echoed by fans despite the outcome.
Online, viewers commented on the streak of tough luck marking Sajak’s final episodes. “Ugh. 3 bonus round losses this week. 2 more chances left this season with Pat,” a fan expressed frustration on a YouTube clip of Allison’s bonus round.
Sajak’s upcoming departure signifies the end of an era for “Wheel of Fortune.” Announcing his retirement last year, Sajak shared his mixed emotions about leaving. “It’s been a wonderful ride, and I’ll have more to say in the coming months,” he tweeted in June 2023.
Sajak noted the profound impact of his tenure, stating, “We became part of the popular culture. And more importantly, we became part of people’s lives.” This sentiment was illustrated as Vanna White, who will continue her role alongside Seacrest, offered an emotional tribute to Sajak in a pre-recorded video. With visible emotion, she described Sajak as “like a brother” and a “true lifelong friend,” emphasizing their deep personal and professional bond.
As fans gear up for Sajak’s final episode this Friday, the legacy of his 41 seasons stands as a testament to his engaging hosting and the joy he brought into homes across America. His successor, Ryan Seacrest, is set to step into considerable shoes this fall, tasked with continuing the tradition of a show that has become an integral part of American entertainment.
