Here's When Pat Sajak's Last 'Wheel Of Fortune' Episode Airs!

It's official! Ryan Seacrest has been named as the new host of Wheel of Fortune, following Pat Sajak’s retirement. Pat hosted the beloved game show for 40 years, before announcing his departure on June 12, 2023. “Well, the time has come. I’ve decided that our 41st season, which begins in September, will be my last," Pat tweeted. "It’s been a wonderful ride, and I’ll have more to say in the coming months.”

Amid news of Pat’s exit from the show, fans wondered who would take on the coveted television role. The View host, Whoopi Goldberg, openly confessed that she was gunning for the hosting gig, while TMZ reported that Ryan was in early talks to take on the gig just a day after Pat announced his retirement.

If you want to tune in to Pat's last episode, here's what you need to know.

Pat’s exit from Wheel of Fortune marks the end of an era for the popular game show. In 2019, Pat celebrated a milestone victory after breaking the Guinness World Record for the longest career as a game show host on the same show. After four decades on television, Pat will now step back from his role as the host of Wheel of Fortune and will now serve as a consultant for the game show.

Season 41 of the show — Pat's final season as host — airs from Sept. 11, 2023 through June 7, 2024. After that Friday episode, Wheel will go on Summer break before returning in the fall for Season 42. That's when Ryan Seacrest will appear on the show as the new host.

Ryan is very excited about his new TV gig. “I'm truly humbled to be stepping into the footsteps of the legendary Pat Sajak,” Ryan wrote in a statement posted to Instagram. He went on to thank Pat for his continued support and provided an update on Vanna White’s future on Wheel of Fortune. Adding, “I can't wait to continue the tradition of spinning the wheel and working alongside the great Vanna White."

Despite Ryan’s apparent enthusiasm, Vanna has seemingly been unhappy with her contract on Wheel of Fortune. According to the New York Post, Vanna has obtained high-profile lawyers amid news that Ryan will be taking over as host. The outlet reports that the model-turned-television personality has been making $3 million per year since 2005 and is now looking to renegotiate her contract.

Vanna has since signed on to join Ryan when Wheel of Fortune returns for Season 42 and has reportedly hired attorney Bryan Freedman to assist with negotiations. However, Ryan is set to receive a massive payout when he takes the helm at Wheel of Fortune. Radar Online reports that Ryan has requested $28 million to host the game show. The deal, when combined with Ryan’s earnings from various other projects, would make him the highest-paid person on television.