TV Icon Pat Sajak steps down as host of 'Wheel of Fortune', marking end of an era for classic game shows
Entertainment | June 6, 2024, 1:34 p.m.
Pat Sajak's departure from 'Wheel of Fortune' marks the end of an era for TV game shows, as he is the last old school game show host. With 41 seasons and over 8,000 shows under his belt, Sajak's affable nature has made him a soothing presence for viewers, easily handling any mishaps on the show with grace and humor. As the longest-running host of a single game show in modern TV history, Sajak leaves behind a legacy of classic game show hosting that defined an era of television.
The rise of celebrity hosts like Jamie Foxx, Jane Lynch, and Ken Jennings signals a shift from traditional game show hosts to performers with established fame and fanbases. Despite this change, the enduring popularity of shows like 'Jeopardy' and 'Wheel of Fortune' suggests that the format of the show itself is the real star. As Ryan Seacrest steps in to replace Sajak, it is clear that the role of the host is evolving, with the focus shifting towards the game itself rather than the individual leading it.