Pat Sajak: The End of an Era in Television History
Pat Sajak is the longest-tenured daytime television host in United States history with over 40 years under his belt. He joined Wheel of Fortune in 1981 and will retire at the end of his 41st season.
Who are Pat Sajak’s kids?
Pat Sajak married his first wife, Sherrill, in 1979. The two remained together until 1986 but never had any children. In 1989, Pat married his second wife, Lesly Brown. Pat and Lesly share two kids: Patrick and Margaret. Patrick Jr. works in the medical field, having earned a medical degree at the University of Maryland. During a 2021 episode of Wheel of Fortune, Pat took a moment to update the audience on his son’s educational achievement. He said, “He’s made it through medical school, and he is now officially Dr. Sajak, and we’re all thrilled. He insists that I call him Dr. Sajak. Lesly and I couldn’t be prouder. I tried to get him into geriatrics, but he refused. But that’s a personal thing.” For the most part, Patrick is a private person and not much else is publicly known about him.
Who is Margaret Sajak?
Margaret Sajak is the daughter of Pat Sajak and a country music singer. She began playing guitar around the age of 12, releasing her debut single, First Kiss, at the age of 16. Margaret – often known as Maggie – graduated from Princeton University before receiving her Master’s degree from Columbia. Maggie once appeared on Wheel of Fortune in lieu of Vanna White. She also works as a social correspondent for the show.
Is Pat Sajak retiring?
On Monday, June 12, 2023, Pat Sajak formally announced his upcoming retirement. “Well, the time has come,” he wrote via Twitter. “I’ve decided that our 41st season, which begins in September, will be my last.” Pat continued: “It’s been a wonderful ride, and I’ll have more to say in the coming months. Many thanks to you all.” Popular television presenter and host Ryan Seacrest will succeed Pat in hosting Wheel of Fortune. “I’m truly humbled to be stepping into the footsteps of the legendary Pat Sajak,” Seacrest said in a statement. “I can say, along with the rest of America, that it’s been a privilege and pure joy to watch Pat and Vanna on our television screens for an unprecedented 40 years, making us smile every night and feel right at home with them.”
When is Pat Sajak’s last Wheel of Fortune show?
Pat Sajak’s final Wheel of Fortune episode airs on June 7, 2024. On his penultimate episode, Pat’s co-star Vanna White offered him a tearful farewell message. She said, ” 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.”