Shocking Revelation: Vanna White's Role on 'Wheel of Fortune' at Risk Amid Pat Sajak Retirement!

Vanna White Kobal/Shutterstock

Update, 6/23/23 at 1:45 p.m. ET:

After reports circulated that Vanna White could be leaving Wheel of Fortune along with Pat Sajak, an insider exclusively told We that’s not the case.

“There is no validity to the speculation that Vanna will be removed from Wheel of Fortune following Pat's retirement," a production insider clarified on Friday, June 23. "Currently, discussions are ongoing between the show and Vanna."

According to a report from Puck published on Thursday, June 22, Sony executives have reportedly discussed the possibility of "eliminating" Vanna White's role on Wheel of Fortune once her longtime cohost, Pat Sajak, retires from the game show in 2024. White, who has been Sajak's cohost since 1982, may not continue on the show after his departure.

White is said to be in talks to return after the 2023-24 season, following Sajak's departure, especially if he is replaced by a well-known figure.

Sajak recently made the announcement that he will be stepping down from his role as the host of the series in 2024. In a statement on June 12, he expressed that the time has come for him to move on after over 40 years in the position. The upcoming 41st season, starting in September, will be his final one. Sajak expressed gratitude to his audience and mentioned that he will share more details in the upcoming months.

White, known to some Wheel of Fortune viewers solely as Sajak's letter-spinning accomplice, showcased her versatility by assuming the role of host in 2019. This opportunity arose when Sajak underwent emergency surgery for a blocked intestine, temporarily incapacitating him. Reflecting on this unexpected turn of events, White expressed her astonishment at being asked to take on the hosting duties after 37 years of being in a different role. She admitted feeling quite nervous during this transition.

Vanna White and Pat Sajak ABC/Christopher Willard

White expressed her desire to have more women hosting game shows, stating that everyone should have the opportunity to host, regardless of gender. She added that it would be enjoyable to see more women taking on this role if it is something they aspire to do. Following Sajak's retirement announcement, numerous celebrities have expressed interest in hosting Wheel of Fortune, with Andy Cohen recently sharing that it would be his ultimate career goal.

Cohen faces tough competition, as Whoopi Goldberg has expressed her interest in the role and reports suggest that Ryan Seacrest is also a strong contender.

“I want that job,” Goldberg, 67, said during the June 13 episode of The View. “I think it would be lots of fun.”