Pat Sajak temporarily reclaimed his throne on Wheel of Fortune, making a surprise guest appearance that left contestants, viewers, and even his successor Ryan Seacrest in awe. The iconic host, who retired in June 2024 after 41 legendary seasons, returned for a special “Legends Week” episode—proving some stars never truly step away from the spotlight.

Wheel of Fortune” fans will want to take this news for a spin. Iconic former host Pat Sajak is coming back!

The iconic host retired from spinning duties last June after an incredible 41-years in the position. But now, less than a year later, he’s returning for what the show is billing as his “Final Spin.”

 

78-year-old Sajak will host the upcoming season of “Celebrity Wheel of Fortune,” premiering Wednesday, April 30 at 8 p.m. ET on ABC, then streaming the next day on Hulu.

The Wheel of Fortune Instagram page broke the good news late last week, and it immediately put true fans into a spin.

One fan summed it up with a one word comment, “FINALLY!!”

 

Others commented, “Been waiting for this for a long time! See you soon!” and “About time . We missed him.”

And another wrote, “LUV seeing Pat & Vanna together again! Cant duplicate the BEST! 😍”

Another is already preparing, saying, “Grabbing our popcorn, can’t wait to tune in!🔥🙌”

But technically, Sajak has never really left “Wheel of Fortune.” Even though he handed the reins to current host Ryan Seacrest, Pat still holds the official title of consultant.

When Sajak first announced his retirement in June 2023, saying the upcoming season would be his last, his consulting role was announced.

Suzanne Prete, the Executive Vice President of Game Shows at Sony Pictures Television which produces “Wheel” said at the time, “As the host of Wheel of Fortune, Pat has entertained millions of viewers across America for 40 amazing years. We are incredibly grateful and proud to have had Pat as our host for all these years and we look forward to celebrating his outstanding career throughout the upcoming season. Pat has agreed to continue as a consultant on the show for three years following his last year hosting, so we’re thrilled to have him remaining close to the Wheel of Fortune family!”

Sajak is Back… but Vanna Never Left

 

Pat Sajak’s return will once again pair him up with his old cohort, Vanna White. White stayed on after Sajak retired and continues to turn letters for new host Ryan Seacrest.

Last month, 68-year-old Vanna was a guest on the “Elvis Duran Show,” where she revealed that “Wheel of Fortune” only films about 34-days each year, giving her plenty of time off despite not retiring.