Vanna White, the renowned letter-turner of “Wheel of Fortune,” is considering her prospects on the game show due to the retirement of her co-host of 41 seasons, Pat Sajak. The absence of Sajak has left White unsure about her future on the show, where she’s been a fixture since 1982, especially with the arrival of the new host, Ryan Seacrest.
A source speaking to the Daily Mail shared that 67-year-old White is finding the transition difficult. The source disclosed, “It is incredibly challenging for her to continue without Pat. A part of her is tempted to leave earlier.” Despite her contract extending until 2026, there are reports that White is contemplating an early exit due to her struggle to adjust to Seacrest’s different hosting style.
The same source added that White and Seacrest, 49, have a hard time connecting on the set. “She just doesn’t connect with Ryan the way she did with Pat, and no one really expected her to,” the source stated. However, a source close to Seacrest denied these claims, saying, “There is no truth to this story. Ryan and Vanna have started working together and are having a great time on set.”
White renewed her contract through the 2025-2026 season after a long-standing salary dispute, which resulted in a significant pay raise. Some sources indicate that White, who has dedicated her life to the show, feels it’s time for the show to evolve to cater to a younger audience. She believes this transition would necessitate a younger female host to join Seacrest.
Pat Sajak, who taped his last episode on June 7, praised White, referring to her as his “professional other half.'” In a heartfelt farewell, Sajak said, “We’ve experienced many changes in our lives over the years but have always supported each other. Although I will greatly miss working with her, I find comfort in knowing we live only about five miles apart. So, we’ll still see each other often. She’s a remarkable woman, and I know everyone is happy she’ll be returning next season.”
Seacrest, who is slated to take over as host for Season 42 in September, expressed his excitement about working with White. “This is fantastic news,” Seacrest declared. “Vanna has been a cornerstone of the show and a presence in our homes for many years. I’ve been eagerly anticipating working with her, and now that it’s official, I can say, ‘Congratulations, Vanna.’ I’m looking forward to it.”
White conveyed her happiness for Sajak, but added, “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.”
Regardless of the circulating rumors and speculations, White’s dedication to “Wheel of Fortune” appears unwavering, at least for the time being. Fans are keenly awaiting the premiere of Season 42 in September to see how the relationship between White and Seacrest develops on the show.
