Vanna White Considers Retirement, Joins Ryan Seacrest as New 'Wheel of Fortune' Co-Host

Vanna White, the iconic co-host of 'Wheel of Fortune,' has shared her thoughts on her future with the show amid rumors of a pay dispute. White revealed that she considered retiring after her longtime partner Pat Sajak announced his departure but ultimately decided to continue. She will join Ryan Seacrest as the new co-host for the upcoming season.

After more than four decades of turning letters on 'Wheel of Fortune,' Vanna White's future with the beloved game show has been the subject of much speculation. Now, the 67-year-old TV personality has shed light on her plans, revealing that she contemplated retirement but ultimately decided to stay.

In an interview with TV Insider, White shared her thoughts on continuing her iconic role after Sajak's announcement that he would be stepping down. "I don’t know. When I heard that Pat was retiring, I thought maybe I should retire too. But I’m not ready!" she exclaimed.

White's contract renewal was announced in September 2023 after months of rumors that she was holding out for a pay increase. While she remained tight-lipped about the details of her negotiations, White hinted at the importance of valuing herself and her contributions.

"Everything is so blown out of proportion, not just with my stuff, with everybody's stuff," she told People magazine. "I'm a strong person. I'm not going to do anything I don't want to do or that I don't believe in."

In July 2023, White secured a substantial pay raise for continuing to host 'Celebrity Wheel of Fortune,' as reported by Deadline. The specific terms of her contracts for both shows remain undisclosed.

Sajak's announcement of his departure in June 2023 marked the end of an era for 'Wheel of Fortune,' which he had hosted for 41 seasons. While White expressed her sadness at his exit, she also recognized the inevitability of endings.

"I can’t describe how I feel," she admitted to TV Insider. "I feel happy for him. I can’t imagine doing the show without him after 41 years. I sum it up as [like] reading a good book. It always has to end. This has been the best book I’ve ever read."

White and Sajak's bond transcends their on-screen chemistry. Over the years, they have shared countless experiences and memories together.

"I don’t think there’s anything [he and I] haven’t talked about in 8,000 shows," White said. "We’ve traveled around the world together. We’ve watched our kids grow up together. We’ve thrown pies in each other’s faces. He’s so funny! I love him like a brother."

Despite Sajak's departure, White assured her fans that their friendship will endure. "We will be friends forever," she declared.

With Ryan Seacrest joining as the new co-host, 'Wheel of Fortune' enters a new chapter. White expressed her excitement about working with Seacrest, who she described as "a professional."

"I think he's going to be great," she told Extra. "I'm excited to work with him. He's a lot of fun."

As 'Wheel of Fortune' continues its legacy with a refreshed lineup, Vanna White remains a steadfast presence, embodying the show's enduring appeal. Her decision to continue her journey on the iconic game show is a testament to her passion for her craft and her unbreakable bond with the viewers who have made 'Wheel of Fortune' a household staple.