How Pat Sajak says farewell to 'Wheel of Fortune' viewers to end final episode
Pat Sajak has said goodbye to "Wheel of Fortune" fans, thanking the TV audience "for allowing me into your lives" for 41 seasons as host of the syndicated game show.
In a poignant video ending Friday's season finale, Sajak's final spin of the wheel, he spoke directly to the TV audience.
"Well, the time has come to say goodbye," he said. "It's been an incredible privilege to be invited into millions of homes night after night, year after year, decade after decade. And I've always felt that privilege came with the responsibility to keep this daily half-hour a safe place for family fun. No social issues, no politics, nothing embarrassing, I hope. Just a game."
The end of an era Pat Sajak set for final 'Wheel of Fortune' episode after more than four decades
But Sajak said that "Wheel of Fortune," with its global reach, became more than a game. The game show became an event "where families came together along with friends and neighbors and entire generations," Sajak said. "What an honor to have played even a small part in all of that. Thank you for allowing me into your lives."
On June 6, his longtime co-host Vanna White gave a tearful farewell to Sajak with her own video, saying, "I love you, Pat." White will continue on "Wheel of Fortune." In September, Ryan Seacrest will take over as host.
Sajak gives his final farewell to 'Wheel of Fortune' host Vanna White
During his farewell, Sajak thanked the "Wheel of Fortune" crew, which includes his daughter Maggie Sajak, who works as the show's social correspondent. Sajak ended the speech by thanking his four-decade show partner, White, whom he called "my professional other half."
"She takes the show very seriously but not herself. I shudder to think what these 40-plus years might have been like had they brought someone in all full of themselves playing the prima donna role," said Sajak. "Vanna is as sweet and unassuming as she seems."
Vanna White Sends tearful farewell to Pat Sajak on 'Wheel of Fortune': 'I love you, Pat!'
The duo have been friends on and off "Wheel of Fortune" for more than four decades.
"We've seen a lot of changes in each other's lives over the years but we've always been there for each other," said Sajak. "While I will very much miss working with her, I take solace in the fact that we live about five miles apart. So we'll see plenty of each other. She's a very special woman and I know you're all pleased she'll be back next season."
What happened in Pat Sajak's final 'Wheel of Fortune'?
"Wheel of Fortune" started Sajak's final episode by going back to Sajak's first, on Dec. 28, 1981, when the then-unknown Los Angeles TV weatherman took over the show, then on NBC in daytime, from Chuck Woolery.
“Please do not adjust your sets at home. Chuck Woolery has not shrunk,” Sajak told viewers. "I’ve been fortunate enough to wander onto the set of a very successful program."
The clip ended as Sajak, in a suit, walked onto the chandelier-adorned set arm in arm with White, wearing a dazzling over-the-shoulder gown. "Wow, I'm all grown up," Sajak said, addressing the throwback clip. "Way grown up. Thanks for the memories."
During the word puzzle games, Sajak even took a rare turn at the famed wheel, which the three contestants turned to determine how much money they're playing for.
"It's been a long time since I've spun the wheel," Sajak said, before ignoring his own low spin and stipulating that each contestant would receive $5,000. "It's not my money; let's give them all $5,000!"
Will we see Pat Sajak after the 'Wheel of Fortune' finale?
Sajak will officially stay on the "Wheel of Fortune" for three years as a consultant. But fans will be able to watch him this summer, in "Wheel of Fortune" reruns.
"You'll still see plenty of me in the next months," said Sajak. "The jokes will be the same, but I'd appreciate it if you'd laugh again anyway."
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Pat Sajack's final show: How 'Wheel of Fortune' host said goodbye
