Let’s take a trip down memory lane for all the fans of Wheel of Fortune. Recently, viewers got a special treat when they were given a behind-the-scenes peek at their beloved game show. The spotlight wasn’t just on the current host, Ryan Seacrest, but also on a man who defined the show for decades—Pat Sajak.
In a newly released video, Ryan Seacrest, the charismatic host of Wheel of Fortune, shared his excitement about celebrating the show's 50th anniversary. He wanted to do something special to honor the hardworking team that has made the show such a success for half a century.
50th Anniversary Celebrations: Introducing the Crew
Ryan Seacrest, who just turned 50, took the opportunity to introduce fans to the incredible crew that works tirelessly behind the scenes to make Wheel of Fortune the iconic show it is today. “We’re celebrating Wheel’s 50th anniversary, and one of my favorite parts of the show has been getting to know the crew since I started,” Ryan said. “So, I wanted to introduce you to some of the amazing people who make this thing come together and happen every single night.”
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As Ryan walked around the bustling set, he made sure to mention everyone who contributes to the magic of the show. But the moment everyone was waiting for came when he spotted a familiar face munching on a sandwich.
Pat Sajak's Surprise Appearance
“As we continue on… This is our former host…” Ryan paused for dramatic effect, and then with a smile, he said, “Hey, Pat!” The camera panned to Pat Sajak, the legendary host of Wheel of Fortune, casually enjoying his lunch. Pat, who retired from hosting the show in September 2024 at the age of 78, made a heartwarming appearance that had fans reminiscing about his time on the show.
After the brief but delightful moment with Pat backstage, Vanna White, the ever-gracious co-host, called out to Ryan, asking if he was “ready for a great show.” With that, they headed out onto the stage. Ryan assumed hosting duties on Wheel of Fortune in season 42, following Pat's retirement.
Fans React to Pat's Cameo
Over on YouTube, fans couldn’t contain their excitement over Pat’s cameo. The comments section erupted with messages of nostalgia and admiration. “Pat Sajak, we miss you!” one fan exclaimed, while another added, “I KNEW I wasn’t seeing things! Nice to see Pat’s cameo!”
“Great seeing a cameo of Pat Sajak!” another fan wrote, while another speculated, “I guess Pat is about to make his special appearance at the end of an episode during this week. I think it’s most likely the Friday episode.”
“Happy 50th anniversary, Wheel of Fortune. I remember when Wheel of Fortune started in 1975 with Chuck Woolery as the host,” another remarked. Chuck Woolery, who hosted the show in its early years, passed away on November 23, 2024, at the age of 83.
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Pat's Next Adventures
Though Pat is no longer taking the stage each night with his signature wit and charm as the host of the show, he’s still very much a part of the Wheel of Fortune family. Pat continues to serve as a consultant on the program for the next three years.
Between his consulting duties, Pat is gearing up to star in a stage production of a classic Columbo episode titled Prescription: Murder, alongside his longtime friend Joe Moore. “They’ve been close for decades and have been waiting for a chance to work together again,” an insider told Closer in June 2024. “They even did a production of The Odd Couple together a couple of years ago because it was a reflection of their dynamic as a duo!”
The Hawaii Theatre Center production will run from July 31 to August 10, 2025. And there’s even more good news for Pat’s fans. ABC has announced that Pat will be hosting one more season of Celebrity Wheel of Fortune.
“Pat’s finally getting the chance to follow his dream,” a source said. “He doesn’t need the spotlight or the cash anymore.”
“He’s taking some well-deserved time off before he pursues his second act!” they added.
