Vanna White is saying goodbye to Pat Sajak after over 40 years on Wheel of Fortune together.
Sajak, 77, will host his last episode of the family-favorite show on Friday, June 7. Before that, White, 67, gave a heartfelt and emotional speech honroing Sajak’s legacy and praising the pair’s longtime friendship.
“I can’t believe that tomorrow is our last show together,” White said. “I don’t know how to put into words what these past 40 years have meant to me but I’m going to try.”
She continued: “8000 episodes went by like that. When I first started, I was so green. You made me so comfortable and so confident, Pat. You made me who I am, you really did.”
White then noted that although the two have “grown up” and had fun together in front of the cameras, their time spent behind the scenes was most special to her.
“As much fun as we’ve had on camera, those memories, milestones and life events we shared with our families outside the studio are my favorite,” she said.
As White recalled the role Sajak has played in her and her family’s lives, she began to cry.
“We’ve watched our children grow up together, we’ve traveled all over the world, we’ve eaten hundreds of meals together, we’ve laughed, we’ve cried, we’ve celebrated,” she said through tears.
“What an incredible and unforgettable journey we’ve had,” she added.
As the video ended, White told Sajak that she has “enjoyed every minute” knowing him.
“As this chapter of our lives is coming to an end, I know you’ll still be close by,” she concluded. “You’re like a brother to me and I consider you a true lifelong friend who I will always adore. I love you, Pat.”
As the sweet video message was over, cameras cut to Sajak and White standing on the Wheel of Fortune stage beside one another, hugging as the crowd clapped.
All Sajak could say was, “Oh my.”
In June 2023, the television personality announced his retirement from the show after its 41st season.
“Well, the time has come. I’ve decided that our 41st season, which begins in September, will be my last,” he shared on Twitter. “It’s been a wonderful ride, and I’ll have more to say in the coming months. Many thanks to you all. (If nothing else, it’ll keep the clickbait sites busy!)”
