Whoopi Goldberg Expresses Interest in Hosting Wheel of Fortune after Pat Sajak’s Departure
In an exciting turn of events, renowned actress and television personality Whoopi Goldberg has revealed her eagerness to take over the hosting duties of the long-running game show, “Wheel of Fortune.” The announcement came shortly after current host Pat Sajak confirmed that he would be stepping down from the iconic role next year.
Goldberg expressed her enthusiasm during the June 13 episode of the popular talk show, “The View,” on which she serves as a co-host. With a smile on her face, she confidently stated, “I want that job. I think it would be lots of fun.” Her co-host, Joy Behar, joined in on the excitement, playfully suggesting that she and fellow co-host Sara Haines could take turns as the show’s letter-turner, Vanna White.
Pat Sajak’s decision to leave “Wheel of Fortune” was announced on June 12, as he acknowledged the forthcoming end of his impressive tenure. Reflecting on his time with the show, Sajak shared, “Well, the time has come. I’ve decided that our 41st season, which begins in September, will be my last. It’s been a wonderful ride, and I’ll have more to say in the coming months. Many thanks to you all.”
The departure of Sajak, who took over hosting duties in 1981, marks the end of an era for the popular daytime program. Chuck Woolery initially hosted the show when it premiered in 1975 before passing the baton to Sajak six years later.
Sajak’s impending exit doesn’t come as a complete surprise, as he had previously hinted at the possibility during a September 2022 interview. Speaking about his gratitude for being a part of people’s lives for so long, he humorously quipped, “In most television shows by this time, you would have said, ‘That’s probably enough,’ but this show will not die.”
Following the news of Sajak’s departure, his longtime co-host Vanna White expressed her support on social media. White, who has been by Sajak’s side for nearly four decades, shared a heartfelt message via Twitter, stating, “When we started @WheelofFortune, who could have imagined we’d still be at it 41 seasons later? I couldn’t be happier to have shared the stage with you for all these years with one more to come. Cheers to you, @patsajak!”
As the television industry speculates about the future of “Wheel of Fortune” and who might step into Sajak’s shoes, one name that has emerged is that of Ryan Seacrest. Reports have surfaced suggesting that Seacrest is in discussions to potentially take over as the new host. However, no official announcement has been made regarding Sajak’s successor.
Meanwhile, Ken Jennings, who recently stepped in as the interim host of “Jeopardy” following the passing of Alex Trebek, jokingly expressed his hopes for a smooth transition on “Wheel of Fortune.” Reflecting on Sajak’s 40-year reign, Jennings humorously remarked, “Pat’s a legend. I mean, over 40 years and the price of a vowel has not gone up one penny. Like, nobody controlled inflation like Pat Sajak.”
As fans eagerly anticipate the upcoming changes on “Wheel of Fortune,” the possibility of Whoopi Goldberg stepping into the host’s role adds an exciting element of anticipation. With her wit, charm, and extensive experience in the entertainment industry, Goldberg could undoubtedly bring a fresh and engaging dynamic to the iconic game show.
