Let’s talk about Vanna White, the iconic face of "Wheel of Fortune," who has been turning letters and making dreams come true for decades. While she may be rolling in dough thanks to her impressive salary, insiders exclusively tell Closer that Vanna is surprisingly frugal. Some might even call her a penny-pincher, but her closest friends know the real story: Vanna just isn’t one for flashy lifestyles. She’s content with simplicity, and that’s what makes her so relatable.

According to those who know her best, Vanna isn’t the type to party it up in Hollywood or hit the red carpet at glamorous premieres. Instead, she prefers quiet evenings at home, cooking for her family and enjoying cozy date nights with her boyfriend, John Donaldson. It’s clear that Vanna values meaningful connections over superficial glitz and glamour. This down-to-earth approach to life is what has endeared her to fans worldwide.

From Humble Beginnings to TV Stardom

Vanna’s journey on "Wheel of Fortune" began way back in 1982, when she stepped into the role previously held by Susan Stafford. Over the years, she’s become an integral part of the show, gracing the screen for more than 6,000 episodes and donning over 5,700 stunning gowns. Her estimated net worth? A cool $85 million, thanks to an annual salary of around $10 million. But don’t let the numbers fool you—Vanna’s heart remains rooted in practicality and simplicity.

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She’s not one for frills or extravagance. In fact, she prefers casual wear like jeans and T-shirts to high-end designer duds. A source reveals, “She gets her TV wardrobe from the show and doesn’t feel the need to take any home. Why would she? She’s not into showing off.” That kind of humility is rare in today’s celebrity culture, and it’s one of the reasons Vanna resonates with so many people.

Practical Spending Habits

Vanna’s frugality stems from her early days in Hollywood, where she struggled financially. “She remembers how hard it was when she couldn’t even afford furniture for her apartment,” says a close friend. This experience has shaped her spending habits, ensuring that she invests in practical items rather than luxury goods. It’s a testament to her resilience and resourcefulness, qualities that have helped her maintain her career for over four decades.

And it looks like Vanna isn’t planning to step away from the spotlight anytime soon. In December 2019, she told Closer that she loves her job and plans to stick around for a while. “How many times do you get to show up every day and give away money, changing people’s lives? It’s incredible,” she said with a smile. Her passion for the show and its impact on viewers is truly inspiring.

A New Era for "Wheel of Fortune"

While Vanna continues to dazzle audiences, longtime host Pat Sajak bid farewell to the show on June 7. His departure marked the end of an era, but Vanna ensured that his legacy was honored with a heartfelt tribute. Holding back tears, she shared a video celebrating their years together, both on and off camera. “As the years went by, we grew up on television,” she reflected. “But what we shared behind the scenes—those memories, milestones, and life events with our families—are my favorite parts.”

Pat Sajak and Vanna White — Rodin Eckenroth/WireImage

With Ryan Seacrest stepping in as the new host, fans can expect fresh energy and excitement. During a September 2023 appearance on Live With Kelly and Mark, Ryan expressed his enthusiasm: “I’ve been a fan of this show forever. Pat Sajak is a legend, and I can’t believe I have the opportunity to take over for him. I can’t wait to be on that set and give out tons of money every night!”

While the official premiere date for season 42 hasn’t been announced, it’s expected to return in September 2024. One thing’s for sure—Vanna will still be there, turning letters and making magic happen. Here’s to many more years of "Wheel of Fortune" and the incredible woman who keeps it spinning!