Pat Sajak’s Final Season Of ‘Wheel Of Fortune’ Brings Drama And Excitement

Dr. Freida McDermott V 14 May 2025

In his final season hosting Wheel of Fortune, Pat Sajak isn't holding back. This legendary game show host is making sure his last run is nothing short of unforgettable. On January 9, during an episode that aired on national TV, Pat didn’t shy away from sharing his candid thoughts in a particularly intense moment.

Let me set the scene for you. Contestant Ashley McFarland was put to the test during a segment titled “What Are You Doing?” Ashley, visibly nervous, was trying her best to solve the puzzle. At one point, Pat, who is now 77 years old, couldn’t help but comment, “It’s too early to panic.” His words were a mix of encouragement and humor, which is classic Pat Sajak.

High Stakes, High Emotions

As the pressure mounted, Ashley made a series of incorrect guesses. Pat, ever the witty host, quipped, “Now you can panic.” The correct answer to the puzzle turned out to be “Browsing the Aisles,” but unfortunately, Ashley just couldn’t crack it. Pat looked genuinely shocked, muttering, “Oh my lord,” under his breath. The tension was palpable as Ashley let out a nervous laugh, followed by a few awkward moments of silence.

Pat, ever the gentleman, checked in with Ashley, asking, “You alright?” She replied with a calm, “I’m good,” but the audience couldn’t help but giggle at the awkwardness of the moment. Despite the slip-up, Ashley left the stage with a smile, having earned $23,398 for her efforts throughout the episode. Imagine walking away with that kind of cash after such a high-stakes game!

Pat's Farewell Season

For Pat, this season 41 of Wheel of Fortune is bittersweet. He’s set to hand over the reins to Ryan Seacrest for season 42. Pat shared his thoughts in a statement earlier this year, saying, “Well, the time has come. I’ve decided that our 41st season, which begins in September, will be my last. It’s been a wonderful ride, and I’ll have more to say in the coming months. Many thanks to you all.” His words reflect the gratitude and nostalgia he feels as he prepares to step away from the show that has been such a big part of his life.

Pat Sajak smiles in a gray suit — GP/Star Max/GC Images

Vanna White’s Future on the Show

And what about Vanna White? She’s staying on as the iconic letter-turner for the next season. Ryan Seacrest, who is set to take over hosting duties, spoke highly of Vanna in a December 2023 interview with E! News. “Of course, being next to Vanna, she’s a legend. She’s an icon,” Ryan said. “We spent a little [time] shooting some promos for next season, and she’s just so down to earth. She’s exactly what you would expect.”

For Ryan, joining the Wheel of Fortune family is a dream come true. “It’s just so exciting to think about being on that set,” he shared. “I’ve watched the show for so many decades. I’m a fan of the show, and the game is the star.”