Pat Sajak, who as the host of “Wheel of Fortune” since 1981 has become one of the most familiar faces on American television, announced on Monday that he will retire next year.
“The time has come,” said Mr. Sajak, 76 years old Twitter. “I have decided that our 41st season, which starts in September, will be my last.”
For four-plus decades Mr. Sajak hosted the show, more than 10,000 people auditioned for “Wheel of Fortune,” which drew more than 26 million viewers each week, according to Sony Pictures Television, the studio who owns. this.
Suzanne Prete, executive vice president of game shows for Sony Pictures Television, said in a statement Monday night that the studio is “incredibly grateful and proud to have had Pat as our host all these years. “
“We look forward to celebrating his remarkable career throughout the coming season,” said Ms. Price.
Mr. Sajak agreed to continue as a consultant for three years after his last season, said Ms. Price.
It is unclear who will take over hosting duties after Mr. Sajak retires.
Vanna White, the longtime co-host of Mr. Sajak, did not post any comments on social media on Monday night. He briefly joined for Mr. Sajak in 2019, when he needed an emergency operation to fix a blocked intestine.
While replaced by Ms. Mr. White Sajak, his daughter, Maggie Sajak, took over the duties of Ms. White on the puzzle board. Ms. Sajak is a social correspondent for the show, posting digital content.
The show, created by Merv Griffin in 1975, features contestants trying to guess word puzzles to compete for money, of which more than $250 million has been awarded since it aired, according to Sony.
