Vanna White Pays Emotional Tribute to Pat Sajak Ahead of His Final “Wheel of Fortune” Episode
As Pat Sajak prepares to bid farewell to Wheel of Fortune after over four decades as its iconic host, his longtime colleague and friend, Vanna White, paid a heartfelt tribute to him. In a moving clip shared on YouTube, White reflected on their remarkable 41-year partnership, expressing gratitude and love for the man who has been a cornerstone of her professional and personal life.
“I can’t believe that tomorrow is our last show together,” White, 67, said in the clip. “I don’t know how to put into words what these past 41 years have meant to me, but I’m going to try.”
A Partnership That Spanned Generations
Since joining Wheel of Fortune in 1982, a year after Sajak took the reins, White has been an integral part of the show’s success. Together, the duo has appeared in nearly 8,000 episodes, creating an enduring legacy on one of television’s most beloved game shows.
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“When I first started, I was so green,” White reminisced. “You made me so comfortable and made me so confident, Pat—you made me who I am, you really did.”
The video tribute included a montage of their on-screen chemistry and behind-the-scenes moments, showcasing their professional growth and deep friendship. White and Sajak, 77, have not only shared the stage but also cherished a bond that extended to their families and personal lives.
A Personal Connection Beyond the Show
White spoke fondly of the off-camera relationship she and Sajak have nurtured over the years. “As the years have gone by, we’ve grown up on television, but we’ve also shared so much more behind the scenes,” she said. “And as much fun as we had on camera, those memories, milestones, and life events we shared with our families outside the studio are my favorite.”
Both hosts raised their families during their tenure on the show. White is the mother of two children, Nikko, 29, and Giovanna, 26, with her ex-husband George Santo Pietro. Sajak shares two children, Patrick, 33, and Maggie, 29, with his wife Lesly Brown. The tribute video even included heartwarming footage of their families together.
An Unforgettable Journey
Throughout their time on Wheel of Fortune, White and Sajak have traveled the world, shared countless meals, and supported each other through laughter and tears. “We’ve laughed, we’ve cried, we’ve celebrated,” White said. “Oh, gosh—what an incredible and unforgettable journey we’ve had. And I’ve enjoyed every minute of it with you.”
In an emotional conclusion to her tribute, White described Sajak as “like a brother” and a “true lifelong friend” whom she will “always adore.” She added, “I love you, Pat,” before the clip ended with a tender moment of White blowing a kiss and embracing her longtime colleague.
Pat Sajak’s Legacy and Farewell
Sajak first announced his plans to leave the show in June 2023, tweeting, “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.”
Since taking on the hosting role in 1981, Sajak has become synonymous with Wheel of Fortune, earning three Daytime Emmys and a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2011. According to IMDb, Sajak has hosted 7,942 episodes of the nighttime version of the show, a remarkable achievement in television history.
The Future of Wheel of Fortune
While Sajak’s departure marks the end of an era, White will continue her role on the show at least through the 2025–2026 season, thanks to a contract extension signed last fall. Ryan Seacrest is set to succeed Sajak as host, beginning a new chapter for the game show.
As the curtain falls on Pat Sajak’s storied career on Wheel of Fortune, his partnership with Vanna White will be remembered as one of television’s most iconic duos. White’s heartfelt tribute is a testament to the enduring bond they share and the legacy they leave behind.
