It's the end of an era. Longtime "Wheel of Fortune" host Pat Sajak is signing off one last time when his final episode on the game show airs Friday night.
Sajak, 77, is retiring after more than 40 years on the show and has called it "a wonderful ride." His longtime co-host Vanna White got emotional on Thursday night's episode, giving an emotional goodbye to someone she's worked alongside for more than 8,000 episodes.
"As this chapter of our lives is coming to an end, I know you'll still be close by," White said while holding back tears. "You're like a brother to me and I consider you a true lifelong friend, who I will always adore. I love you, Pat."
Sajak won't be gone entirely. He said he will still work behind the scenes as a consultant for the show.
Entertainment
'Wheel of Fortune' host Pat Sajak to retire after 41 seasons
Sajak has won three Daytime Emmy Awards for outstanding game show host, in 1993, 1997 and in 1998, while on "Wheel of Fortune." Sony Pictures Television announced last year that Ryan Seacrest will take over hosting duties this September.
"I'm truly humbled to be stepping into the footsteps of the legendary Pat Sajak," Seacrest said at the time. "I can say, along with the rest of America, that it's been a privilege and pure joy to watch Pat and Vanna on our television screens for an unprecedented 40 years, making us smile every night and feel right at home with them. Pat, I love the way you've always celebrated the contestants and made viewers at home feel at ease."
