Sajak wins first Emmy in 26 years for hosting his final season of Wheel of Fortune
Pat Sajak, the longtime host of Wheel of Fortune, has won an Emmy for his final season on the show. On Saturday, Sept. 7, at the 2024 Creative Arts Emmys, Sajak received the award for Outstanding Host for a Game Show.
Sajak, 77, started hosting Wheel of Fortune in 1981 and retired in June 2024. This marks his first Emmy win in 26 years. He had previously won three Daytime Emmys for the same category in 1993, 1997, and 1998. Over his career, Sajak has been nominated 23 times. He was also given a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Daytime Emmys in 2011.
In this year’s category, he was up against Steve Harvey (Celebrity Family Feud), Ken Jennings (Jeopardy!), Keke Palmer (Password), and Jane Lynch (Weakest Link).
Sajak’s departure from Wheel of Fortune ends an era. He took over the show from Chuck Woolery in 1981, and Vanna White joined him as co-host in 1982. Together, they became household names over the past four decades.
Reflecting on his time as host, Sajak said, “Somewhere along the line, we became more than a popular show. We became part of the culture. More importantly, we became part of people’s lives.”
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Sajak announced his retirement in June 2023, writing on social media, “Well, the time has come. I’ve decided that our 41st season, which begins in September, will be my last. It’s been a wonderful ride, and I’ll have more to say in the coming months. Many thanks to you all.”
During his final episode on June 7, Sajak gave a heartfelt speech thanking the show’s fans, the crew, and his family. He spoke highly of the contestants over the years, calling them the “real stars” of the show. He also gave a special mention to Vanna White, calling her his “professional other half.” He shared that while he would miss working with her, they live close to each other and will still stay in touch.
Though Sajak has retired from the regular Wheel of Fortune, he isn’t done with TV yet. He will be back as the host of Celebrity Wheel of Fortune when the new season starts on Oct. 7. Ryan Seacrest has been chosen as his replacement for the main show, with White continuing as co-host through the 2025-2026 season.
Sajak’s Emmy win and his final season mark the end of a long chapter in game show history. Wheel of Fortune will continue to air weeknights, as fans look forward to the next era of the beloved show.
News Source: PEOPLE
