After hosting “Wheel of Fortune” for 41 seasons, Pat Sajak is set to retire and delve into a new venture. He has already announced his next project—taking on the lead role in the crime play “Prescription: Murder” in Honolulu, Hawaii.
“Prescription: Murder” is scheduled to premiere next summer at the historic Hawaii Theatre. Sajak’s role in this play is a significant departure from his familiar television persona. He will play a brilliant psychiatrist entangled in a sinister plot, providing him with a unique opportunity to showcase his acting skills. This play, which set the stage for the famous detective Columbo, is anticipated to engage audiences with its riveting plot.
The production will also mark Sajak’s reunion with his long-time friend Joe Moore, a respected newscaster for KHON-TV in Hawaii. Their collaboration at the Hawaii Theatre has lasted over 30 years and includes notable productions like “The Odd Couple” and “The Honeymooners.” “Joe and I have a special chemistry on stage that we hope brings a fresh energy to this classic thriller,” Sajak said in a recent interview.
The play will run from July 31 to August 10, 2025, offering fans a chance to see Sajak’s theatrical talents. In the play, Sajak’s character, Dr. Roy Flemming, devises a clever alibi to remove his domineering wife, played by Amy K. Sullivan. As the story progresses, Moore’s character, Lt. Columbo, begins to dissect Flemming’s plan, leading to a gripping finale.
The cast includes local talents such as Bryce Moore, Therese Olival, and Aiko Chinen, creating a diverse combination of expertise and fresh perspectives. Directed by Rob Duval, the production aims to offer a unique interpretation of this classic mystery.
Sajak seems content with his decision to leave “Wheel of Fortune,” looking back on his tenure with fondness and looking forward to his return to theater. “It’s a perfect time for a change. Hosting has been a significant part of my life, but I’m excited about returning to my first love—theater,” he said, adding that he’s now “patiently waiting for grandkids.”
Ryan Seacrest, who is poised to take over the host role on “Wheel of Fortune,” has expressed his respect for the legacy he is about to inherit. “Stepping into Pat’s shoes is an immense honor. I look forward to continuing the show’s legacy and hope to bring my own flavor to it,” Seacrest said.
Pat Sajak’s transition from a familiar game show host to a stage actor signifies an interesting shift and exploration of artistic avenues. His new role not only offers an outlet for his theatrical talents but also rekindles his connection to drama, demonstrating that successful careers can evolve into new and exciting phases.
