Let's face it, folks: there's something comforting about tuning in and seeing the same familiar faces on your favorite shows. For more than four decades, Pat Sajak and Vanna White have been those familiar faces on 'Wheel of Fortune.' As Vanna told Closer, "Turning on the TV today, it's just so negative everywhere you look. That's why it's such a treat to have 30 minutes of pure fun with 'Wheel of Fortune.' It's like a little escape from the chaos of the world." And who can argue with that? For millions of viewers, their presence has been a daily dose of joy and positivity.
Pat Sajak's Retirement Announcement
Now, here's where things get interesting. Last month, Pat Sajak made a big announcement: he's stepping away after the 41st season of the show. Can you imagine how that must've felt for Vanna? At 66 years old, she's been a constant by Pat's side for decades, turning those letters with a smile. Vanna admitted it would feel strange to have someone else turning her letters. "She's just not ready to retire," a close friend of hers revealed. And while Pat's dad jokes and jolly demeanor will surely be missed, Vanna is expected to stay on the show when Ryan Seacrest takes over next year.
A Look Back at Their Incredible Partnership
Vanna opened up in December 2022 about the unique bond she shares with Pat. "I cannot imagine doing this show without him," she said. And let's be honest, after so many years, that connection must run deep. "We've never exchanged a cross word," Vanna shared, emphasizing the respect and camaraderie they've built over the years. "It would feel strange working with someone else," she admitted. But that's showbiz, right? Change is inevitable, and Vanna seems ready to adapt.
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Vanna's Thoughts on Hosting
Now, here's the twist: Vanna wasn't exactly thrilled about not being considered for Pat's job. Think about it—she stepped up to the plate in 2019 when she had to fill in for three weeks. "To be asked on the spot, 'How do you feel about hosting the show?'—I mean, what?! I was so nervous," Vanna recalled. But guess what? She nailed it. Vanna believes it would be great to see more women hosting such iconic shows. Yet, she handled the news of Ryan Seacrest's appointment with grace. "A part of her thought the job would be offered to her, but she doesn't have any hard feelings. She doesn't hold grudges, and she understands how showbiz works," a friend explained.
Salary Talks and Vanna's Raise Request
With Ryan reportedly earning a whopping $28 million salary for hosting 'Wheel of Fortune,' Vanna is speaking up about her compensation. She hasn't had a raise in 18 years! Can you believe that? "The 18 years of not getting a raise is true, but she's gotten many bonuses," a friend revealed. "Vanna isn't greedy. She knows she's got a great deal, but with Ryan's salary, she feels it's only fair to ask for more. She's confident the producers will do the right thing." Who could blame her? Fair's fair, after all.
Will Vanna's Role Change?
In today's tech-driven world, 'Wheel of Fortune' could easily replace Vanna with a computer or even a robot to turn those letters. But will they? Not likely, according to Vanna's friend. "The show may be old-school, but it works," the friend noted. "Fans would be furious if Vanna's role was eliminated. Her outfits, her charm—it's all part of what makes the show special. The die-hard fans would flip out if she was replaced by a machine!" And who can blame them? Vanna is more than just a letter-turner; she's a beloved part of the show's fabric.
Vanna's Confidence in the Future
Though the set won't be the same without Pat, Vanna remains optimistic. Pat wasn't just a co-host; he was a close friend. But Vanna's confident that she and Ryan will keep the magic of 'Wheel of Fortune' alive. "She likes Ryan and thinks they'll work great together," a friend shared. And that's a relief for fans everywhere.
Vanna's Gratitude and Personal Life
Vanna, who grew up in South Carolina dreaming of becoming a model or actress, feels incredibly grateful for her life. Beyond her beloved job, she cherishes her family. She has two wonderful adult children, son Nikko, 29, and daughter Gigi, 26, and a happy relationship with partner John Donaldson since 2012. "I'm still having fun," she said. "Life has had its ups and downs, but right now, everything feels so smooth and easy." And that's a beautiful way to live, isn't it?
