What to know about Pat Sajak’s final ‘Wheel of Fortune’ episode

After decades as host, Pat Sajak is saying goodbye to “Wheel of Fortune.”

Sajak, 77, first told contestants to “spin that wheel” in 1981 when the show aired on network daytime television. The syndicated version, still airing today, debuted in 1983, and he has also hosted “Celebrity Wheel of Fortune” since 2021.

In a preview clip from his final episode, Sajak shared a special message to the millions who have tuned in for decades.

“I’ve always felt that the privilege came with a responsibility to keep this daily half hour a safe place for family fun. No social issues, no politics, nothing embarrassing, I hope. Just a game. But gradually it became more than that: a place where kids learn their letters, where people from other countries hone their English skills, where families came together along with friends and neighbors and entire generations,” he said. “What an honor to have played even a small part in all that. Thank you for allowing me into your lives.”

With such a milestone moment in game show history upon us, continue reading for everything you need to know about Sajak’s final episode of “Wheel of Fortune.”

When does Pat Sajak’s final episode air?

Sajak’s final episode of “Wheel of Fortune” airs Friday, June 7.

You can find the station and time that the show airs in your city at the top of WheelofFortune.com.

What has Pat Sajak said about leaving the show

Sajak first announced he was leaving “Wheel of Fortune” in June 2023.

He said in his announcement that “the time has come” and added that “it’s been a wonderful ride.”

Sony Pictures Television revealed at the time that Sajak would stay on as a consultant for three years following his final season of “Wheel of Fortune.”

In a recent sit-down interview with his daughter Maggie, the game show’s social correspondent, Sajak said he’d “had time to sort of get used to” his departure and that it’s “been a little bit wistful and all that.”

“…But I’m enjoying it and taking it all in and reflecting on the great run,” he added.

Sajak also reflected on the show’s success and his partnership with co-host Vanna White.

“Somewhere along the line, we became more than a popular show. We became part of the popular culture,” he said. “And, more importantly, we became part of people’s lives, and that’s been awfully gratifying.”

Sajak addressed the timing of his departure, joking: “I’d rather leave a couple years too early than a couple of years too late.”

What has Vanna White said about Sajak’s departure?

After Sajak announced he was leaving “Wheel of Fortune,” White took to X, formerly Twitter, to share her reaction.

“When we started @WheelofFortune who could have imagined we’d still be at it 41 seasons later?” she posted, adding that she “couldn’t be happier to have shared the stage with [him] for all these years.”

“Cheers to you, @patsajak!” White added.

During Sajak’s penultimate episode, which aired June 6, White gave a tearful tribute to her longtime friend and colleague.

“When I first started, I was so green. You made me so comfortable and made me so confident, Pat,” she said.

“As the years have gone by, we’ve grown up on television, but we’ve also shared so much more behind the scenes,” she continued. “And as much fun as we had on camera, those memories, milestones and life events we shared with our families outside the studio are my favorite.”

White concluded by saying: “What an incredible and unforgettable journey we’ve had. And I’ve enjoyed every minute of it with you. You’re like a brother to me, and I consider you a true lifelong friend, who I will always adore. I love you, Pat.”

The puzzleboard queen has signed on through at least the 2025-2026 season, so fans won’t have to worry about saying goodbye to her just yet.