LOS ANGELES — It’s not clear exactly how many spins legendary emcee Pat Sajak has left in him, but the longtime “Wheel of Fortune” host could soon bid farewell to one of the longest-running game shows in U.S. history.
“It appears I may go before the show,” Sajak told Entertainment Tonight, discussing his 40-year tenure with the fan-favorite letter game, adding good-naturedly, “In most television shows by this time, you would have said, ‘That’s probably enough,’ but this show will not die.”
“Wheel of Fortune” debuted in 1975, with Sajak, now 75, assuming hosting duties in 1981, People magazine reported.
“Years go by fast. We’re getting near the end. It’s been a long [time]. We’re not gonna do this for another 40 years. The end is near,” Sajak told ET, adding, “It’s an honor to have been in people’s living rooms for that long. People were out there welcoming us. We’re happy and proud.”
According to People, Sajak celebrated his 40th year hosting the show in December, adorably marked by a social media tribute by his daughter, who tweeted, “Happy 40th Wheel-iversary to this guy!” alongside a throwback photo of her father hosting the show.
Happy 40th Wheel-iversary to this guy! On this day in 1981, @patsajak hosted his very first episode of @WheelofFortune…and the rest is history! pic.twitter.com/IufbIMD0jL
— Maggie Sajak (@MaggieSajak) December 28, 2021
Meanwhile, entertainment news site Screen Rant reported that “Wheel of Fortune” trails only “The Price is Right” and “Jeopardy” for longevity among U.S. game shows.
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