An American TV icon bids farewell. Chicago-born Pat Sajaks tenure as the host of Wheel of Fortune has sadly come to an end, but hes left the Wheels legacy in the capable hands of long-time co-host Vanna White and Ryan Seacrest moving forward. Sajak first appeared on the popular game show some 43 years ago in 1981 back when the series aired during the daytime on network television. As Sajak walks away from his home away from home, the Wheels beloved host had this to say to the fans in his farewell speech, courtesy of Wheel of Fortunes official YouTube channel: