Pat Sajak Returns for One Last Season of Celebrity Wheel of Fortune

LOS ANGELES, CA — Pat Sajak returned to host one final season of Celebrity Wheel of Fortune during the May 14 episode. Sajak expressed excitement about his return after retiring from the syndicated version of the show after its 41st season. Ryan Seacrest, who took over hosting duties for Season 42, was humorously locked in a dressing room by Sajak to avoid stepping on his toes this season.

“I am delighted to have one more shot at hosting Celebrity Wheel of Fortune,” Sajak said at the start of the episode. “I’m very happy to be here and I want to thank Ryan Seacrest for allowing me to come back for this season.” Sajak’s playful antics set the tone for the show as Seacrest attempted to escape from the dressing room.

As they incorporated this humorous angle, Sajak asked Seacrest through the closed door, “You alright back there, Ryan?” Seacrest responded, “You said he’d be right back with the key,” while attempting to open the locked door. Vanna White, who co-hosts with Seacrest, looked on with disbelief.

Sajak confirmed that this would be his last season as he steps aside for Seacrest, who is expected to continue hosting in the future. “I was going to be one of the celebrities playing this season. Unfortunately, our casting folks found a lot of funnier people, so I’m back to hosting,” Sajak quipped.

Since Seacrest’s takeover, the show has seen a makeover with new stage design and hosting styles. The format has also shifted, introducing a twist called “Bragging Rights,” where groups of friends compete for smaller prizes as well as bragging rights among themselves.

Following the changes and Sajak’s nostalgic return, fans have had mixed reactions to the new segment, with some expressing their concern over the longer introductory segments and too much host banter. Ratings will be closely watched as audiences adjust to the refreshed format.

Celebrity Wheel of Fortune airs Wednesdays at 8 p.m. ET on ABC, featuring celebrity contestants alongside the iconic wheel.