One year ago, Pat Sajak announced his retirement from the game show “Wheel of Fortune” after 41 years as host. In his online statement, the 77-year-old said, “Well, the time has come. I’ve decided that our 41st season, which begins in September, will be my last. It’s been a wonderful ride, and I’ll have more to say in the coming months. Many thanks to you all.”

Suzanne Prete from Sony Pictures Television expressed gratitude, saying, “Pat has entertained millions of viewers across America for 40 amazing years. We are incredibly grateful and proud to have had Pat as our host.” Prete also mentioned that Sajak would remain a consultant for the show after retiring from hosting.

Sajak started on “Wheel of Fortune” in 1981 and took over nighttime hosting in 1983. He won the Daytime Emmy for Outstanding Game Show Host three times, cementing his legacy as one of television’s most successful game show hosts.

In his final appearance, Sajak thanked fans, calling it an “incredible privilege to be invited into millions of homes night after night, year after year, decade after decade.” The show honored him with a touching tribute: “41 seasons and 8,000+ episodes later, we will miss you so dearly! Your legacy on Wheel will continue to inspire us, Pat.”