In a heartfelt finale, longtime Wheel of Fortune host Pat Sajak delivered an emotional farewell speech during his final episode on Friday. After an impressive 41-year run, Sajak expressed his gratitude for the privilege of being a part of millions of households night after night, year after year.

During his farewell address, Sajak emphasized the show's role as a "safe place for family fun" with no involvement in social issues or politics. Over the years, Wheel of Fortune became more than just a game, becoming a source of education for children learning their letters and a platform for language improvement for individuals from various countries. Sajak expressed his honor for playing a small part in these milestones and thanked viewers for inviting him into their lives.

Contrary to his previous expectation, Sajak's co-host Vanna White, who has been with the show for over four decades, has decided to remain on Wheel of Fortune after Sajak's departure. White signed a contract extension last fall and will continue her duties on the show at least through the 2025-2026 season. Though she has chosen to stay, White has openly expressed the emotional impact of Sajak's exit, sharing memories and the deep connection they formed both on and off the camera over the years.

As Sajak bids farewell to his iconic role, it has been revealed that he will be heading to Hawaii to star in an adaptation of the play Prescription: Murder alongside his long-time friend, broadcaster Joe Moore of KHON-TV. The play will run at Honolulu's Hawaii Theatre from July 31, 2025, to August 10, 2025. Sajak will portray the character of Roy Flemming, a brilliant psychiatrist with a chilling plot to murder his possessive wife. This marks the ninth play in which Sajak and Moore have starred together.

Explaining his decision to exit the show, Sajak sat down for an interview with his daughter Maggie on Good Morning America. When asked why he chose to leave now, Sajak reiterated his belief in leaving a couple of years early rather than too late. He expressed his enjoyment of his last year on the show and his anticipation for the future.

With over four decades and 8,000 episodes under his belt, Pat Sajak's departure from Wheel of Fortune marks the end of an era. As viewers bid farewell to a beloved host, the show will undoubtedly continue to entertain and provide family-friendly fun under Vanna White's continued presence.