Pat Sajak’s last ‘Wheel of Fortune’ is tonight: What he's doing next, his Michigan ties

Portrait of Duante Beddingfield Duante Beddingfield
Detroit Free Press

“Wheel of Fortune” host Pat Sajak’s final episode will air Friday night.

Sajak is retiring from the five-times-weekly game show after more than 40 seasons and over 8,000 episodes. He began hosting “Wheel” in 1981 and now signs off as the longest-running host of a game show in modern television history.

“I’d rather leave a couple of years too early than a couple of years too late,” Sajak told Good Morning America recently. 

Sajak, however, does have his next gig lined up - and it's right here in Michigan. Here's what to know.

Wheel of Fortune host Pat Sajak on the field before the game between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Washington Nationals at RFK Stadium May 31, 2007 in Washington, DC.

Who's replacing Pat Sajak?

Ubiquitous radio personality and “American Idol” host Ryan Seacrest will take over Sajak’s role as host. 

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What about Vanna White?

Sajak’s “Wheel” sidekick, Vanna White, held a contract that was set to expire in 2024. But shortly after Sajak announced his departure, White signed a two-year extension, keeping her on the show through at least 2026.

What is Pat Sajak's next job?

Pat Sajak has served as chairman of Hillsdale College's Board of Trustees since 2019, and will continue that role after he's done with "Wheel of Fortune."

Sajak has been involved with south Michigan’s Hillsdale College since 2003, serving as vice chairman from 2003-19, when he was promoted to chairman. He also served as this year’s commencement speaker.