Pat Sajak Bids Farewell to 'Wheel of Fortune' After 40 Years: An Emotional Goodbye

After four decades as the beloved host of 'Wheel of Fortune,' Pat Sajak has bid an emotional farewell to fans, contestants, and his longtime colleagues. In his final episode, Sajak delivered a heartfelt speech, expressing his gratitude for the incredible journey and sharing his thoughts on the legacy of the iconic game show.

Pat Sajak, the legendary host of 'Wheel of Fortune,' officially bid farewell to the show and its loyal viewers on Friday evening. The final episode, appropriately titled "Thanks for the Memories," featured a poignant goodbye speech from Sajak, who has been at the helm of the game show for over 40 years.

The episode began with a nostalgic flashback to Sajak's first episode in 1981, when he took over from Chuck Woolery. Following the toss-up round, Sajak addressed the audience, acknowledging that most viewers were aware it was his final episode. He explained that due to limited time, the game night would proceed slightly differently.

Sajak surprised the contestants by spinning the wheel and adding an additional $1,000 to their winnings, regardless of where it landed. He then generously increased the amount to $5,000 for each contestant, stating that it wasn't his money to keep.

After the game, Sajak's longtime announcer, Jim Thornton, expressed his gratitude to Sajak for 13 years of service before introducing a brief commercial break. Upon returning to the stage, Sajak thanked Thornton, acknowledging his professionalism and dedication to the show.

In his heartfelt goodbye speech, Sajak reflected on the incredible privilege of being invited into millions of homes night after night for decades. He emphasized his responsibility to maintain the show as a safe place for family entertainment, devoid of controversial topics or embarrassing moments.

However, Sajak noted that the show had evolved beyond just a game. It became a platform where children learned their letters, foreigners practiced their English skills, and families came together for wholesome entertainment.

With a sense of humility, Sajak expressed his gratitude for being a small part of that experience. He thanked the viewers for allowing him into their lives and shared his joy in meeting countless contestants from all walks of life.

Sajak went on to acknowledge the exceptional staff and crew who made the show possible. He praised their skills, dedication, and good humor, recognizing that their hard work made his job easier and the show a success.

Sajak also took a moment to appreciate his daughter, Maggie Sajak, who recently joined the show as a temporary host. He expressed his admiration for her growth and thanked her for interviewing him for a recent segment.

With a heartfelt tribute, Sajak acknowledged his "professional other half," Vanna White. He praised her sweet and unassuming nature, stating that she was as authentic as she seemed on screen. Sajak thanked White for her longstanding dedication to the show and shared that she would be returning for the upcoming season.

While Sajak is retiring from the world of game shows, he hinted at his upcoming appearance in a stage production in Hawaii. A week after his retirement announcement, Ryan Seacrest was named as Sajak's successor, who will take over as host for Season 42 of 'Wheel of Fortune.'

As Sajak concluded his final speech, he expressed his sincere gratitude to everyone involved in the show's success, stating, "Thank you all so very much and goodbye." The audience erupted in a standing ovation, bidding farewell to the beloved host who had entertained generations of viewers for over four decades.