Pat Sajak To Return To ‘Wheel Of Fortune’ For Special Series

Pat Sajak will return to “Wheel of Fortune” for a special celebrity series this fall following his retirement as host of the popular syndicated game show in June after more than 40 years.

Sajak has been picked as the host of ABC’s “Celebrity Wheel of Fortune” when it premiers in October, the Hollywood Reporter reported. Sources told the outlet that the episodes have yet to be taped and that they will air on Mondays when the network doesn’t have a “Monday Night Football Game.” A press release from ABC to People magazine also confirmed that Sajak was coming back to TV, calling it his “final spin” on the franchise.

Sajak’s last episode aired on June 7 after he hosted the show for 41 years alongside Vanna White. 

Pat Sajak Returning to TV to Host ‘Celebrity Wheel of Fortune’ After Retirement https://t.co/1uyadVBOlY

— People (@people) July 10, 2024

In a sweet final message to the viewers, Sajak acknowledged that the “time has come to say goodbye. I have a few thanks and acknowledgments before I go, and I want to start with all watching out there. It’s been an incredible privilege to be invited into millions of homes night after night, year after year, decade after decade.”

“I always felt that the privilege came with the responsibility to keep this daily half-hour a safe place for family fun,” he added.“No social issues. No politics. Nothing embarrassing, I hope. Just a game. But gradually it became more than that.”

“A place where kids learned their letters, where people from other countries honed their English skills, where families came together along with friends and neighbors, and entire generations. What an honor to play even a small part in all of that,” Sajak continued. “Thank you for allowing me into your lives.”

Last year, Sajak announced he was leaving the show, with cohost Vanna White — who first appeared alongside the host in 1982 — remaining on board.

“Well, the time has come. I’ve decided that our 41st season, which begins in September, will be my last,” Sajak wrote on June 12, 2023.

“It’s been a wonderful ride, and I’ll have more to say in the coming months,” he added. “Many thanks to you all. (If nothing else, it’ll keep the clickbait sites busy!)”

Shortly after the retirement announcement, his replacement was announced with media personality Ryan Seacrest confirming he’d been picked to succeed him, posting on X that he’s “truly humbled to be stepping into the footsteps of the legendary Pat Sajak.”

Related: Pat Sajak’s Final Show On ‘Wheel Of Fortune’ Scores Massive Ratings Boost