Spin the wheel on these Pat Sajak facts: Famed host's age, height, career, more

The upcoming season of “Wheel of Fortune” will be longtime host Pat Sajak’s last, he announced in a statement in June 2023. Host-of-many-trades Ryan Seacrest will replace Sajak, who has hosted the game show since 1981. The former  “Live with Kelly and Ryan” host will also serve as a consulting producer on the show. 

Whether you’re a regular "Wheel of Fortune" watcher or, like Ed Grimley, just think Pat Sajak is “like, a pretty decent guy,” here’s what you need to know about the legendary host.

How old is Pat Sajak?

Pat Sajak is 76 years old as of July 2023. He was born in Chicago on Oct. 26, 1946.

According to the History Channel, Sajak attended Chicago’s Columbia College before joining the Army. He was a disc jokey for the Armed Forces Radio while he was stationed in Vietnam. After a stint as a staff announcer in Nashville, Sajak became a weatherman for KNBC-TV, a local Los Angeles station. It was in LA that "Wheel of Fortune" creator Merv Griffin found Sajak and, in Sajak's words, "took a shine to me, as they say."

Sajak was 35 years old when he joined the "Wheel" in 1981.

Pat Sajak is retiring:Look back at quotes from the 'Wheel of Fortune' host

How tall is Pat Sajak?

Sajak is 5 foot, 10 inches tall, according to his IMDb page. 

How long has Pat Sajak been on "Wheel of Fortune"?

Pat Sajak has hosted the "Wheel of Fortune" since 1981 when he took over daytime hosting duties from inaugural host Chuck Woolery. The show made its evening syndicated debut in 1983 with Sajak as host. Longtime co-host Vanna White joined Sajak in 1982 on the daytime version. 

Why is Pat Sajak leaving "Wheel of Fortune"?

Sajak is retiring from his post on the popular game show, a position he has held for 40 years. 

"Well, the time has come," he said in a statement. "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. (If nothing else, it'll keep the clickbait sites busy!)"

After he retires, Sajak will continue working as chairman of the Board of Trustees for the conservative Hillsdale College. 

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