‘You made me who I am’: Vanna White bids emotional farewell to ‘Wheel of Fortune’ host Pat Sajak ahead of his final episode

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Vanna White recently got teary as she paid an emotional tribute to Pat Sajak, her co-host of more than 40 years, ahead of his final episode as the host of 'Wheel of Fortune', Page Six reported.

On Thursday's, June 6, 2024, episode of the beloved game show, White honored Sajak's work and their friendship with a video segment on her Instagram account that featured clips and photos tracing their collaboration from the 1980s to the present.

Vanna White bids emotional farewell to host Pat Sajak ahead of his final show

On Friday, June 7, Pat Sajak, who declared his departure from 'Wheel of Fortune' in 2023, will host the final episode of the show. Ryan Seacrest will assume the prestigious position of host for the upcoming season, with White remaining in the role.

"I can't believe that tomorrow is our last show together," White said in the clip on Thursday. "I don't know how to put into words what these past 41 years have meant to me, but I'm going to try."

Sajak has hosted 'Wheel of Fortune' for 43 years since 1981. Sajak and White, who joined the show in 1982, have worked together on upwards of 8,000 episodes over the years.

As the sentences are guessed on the board, White's now-iconic job as co-host involves revealing the letters for the phrases while Sajak quizzes contestants at the show's eponymous wheel.

"When I first started, I was so green," White said. "You made me so comfortable and made me so confident, Pat."

She continued, "As the years have gone by, we've grown up on television, but we've also shared so much more behind the scenes. And as much fun as we had on camera, those memories, milestones and life events we shared with our families outside the studio are my favorite."

"What an incredible and unforgettable journey we've had. And I've enjoyed every minute of it with you," she said. "You're like a brother to me, and I consider you a true lifelong friend, who I will always adore. I love you, Pat," White further added.

Sajak has been married to his wife Lesly Brown since 1989. They have two children -- daughter Maggie Sajak and son Patrick Michael James Sajak. White and her ex-husband George Santo Pietro are parents to two children -- Nikko and Gigi Santo Pietro.

Emotional fans call 'Wheel of Fortune' host Pat Sajak 'legend'

Apart from Vana White, several fans took to social media to express their views on the iconic host leaving 'Wheel of Fortune'.

One social media user wrote on Instagram, "Pat Sajak is going to be missed. He deserves a star on the Hollywood walk of fame." 

Another said, "Vanna crying instantly makes me sob like a baby.Such a sweet video. Pat will be missed by all."

One person commented, "Well said Vanna. I definitely got emotional watching this."

Another added, "It won't be the same without Vanna and Pat together."

One individual wrote, "Pat Sajak will always be a legend. Thanks for all the wonderful memories, Pat. I wish you all the best." 

Another said, "The most dynamic pair."

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