Pat Sajak is taking his final spin on Wheel of Fortune today as he leaves his hosting gig. “I always felt that the privilege came with the responsibility to keep this daily half-hour a safe place for family fun,†he said during today’s final episode, per ABC News. “No social issues, no politics. Nothing embarrassing, I hope. Just a game. But gradually, it became more than that.†Sajak has hosted the game show since 1981, when NBC plucked him away from his job as an L.A. weatherman for the role to make him one of America’s most iconic TV hosts. He announced his retirement last year, saying “the time has come†after 41 seasons. He’s enjoying retired life quickly, already set to star in a Hawaii production of the Columbo-inspired play Prescription: Murder. Ryan Seacrest will take his place next season.
Sajak’s longtime cohost, Vanna White, said good-bye to him in her own message. “When I first started, I was so green,†she remembered, holding back tears. “You made me so comfortable and so confident, Pat. You made me who I am, you really did.†Don’t worry — she’s sticking around! Sajak is signing off with a simple thank-you to viewers. “What an honor to have played even a small part in all that,†he said. “Thank you for allowing me into your life.â€