Is Tom Bergeron replacing Pat Sajak? Former ‘Dancing With the Stars’ host drops major hint about ‘Wheel of Fortune’ role
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: After ‘Wheel of Fortune’ host, Pat Sajak penned a personal note to announce his retirement from the game show after 40 years, fans began to speculate and murmur about his replacement. While many rumored Sajak’s co-host Vanna White might take up his position, the former host of ‘Dancing with the Stars’, Tom Bergeron, gave fans a significant hint.
Pat Sajak, known for his witty remarks and playful banter is leaving the show after hosting the last season in June 2024. While many believe Vanna White, who has been co-hosting the show since 1982, might replace him, others speculate it could be his daughter Maggie Sajak as she’s been involved with ‘Wheel of Fortune’ as a social media correspondent. However, recently, ‘Dancing with the Stars’ ex-host, Tom Bergeron revealed major news which could put a stop to the ongoing speculations. In an Instagram post, he hinted that Ryan Seacrest, the former host of popular TV shows such as ‘American Idol’ and ‘Live with Kelly and Ryan’, is in line for Sajak’s role.
Who is Tom Bergeron?
Tom Bergeron is an American television personality and game show host best known for hosting the popular reality competition show ‘Dancing With the Stars’ from 2005 to 2019. Bergeron had been part of various shows including ‘America's Funniest Home Videos’ and ‘Hollywood Squares’. He is known for his wit, charm, and improvisational skills, which have made him a beloved figure in the entertainment industry. Tom Bergeron was the host of ‘Dancing with the Stars’ for the first 28 seasons and was replaced in 2020 following his admission to how he felt things changing behind the scenes of the show and figured he wouldn't be around for much longer. Therefore, he was not surprised when ABC decided to abruptly fire him soon after.
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Ryan Seacrest to replace Pat Sajak in ‘Wheel of Fortune’?
Earlier this month, beloved ‘Wheel of Fortune' host Pat Sajak announced his plans to retire from his hosting gig. While his replacement has not yet been announced, former ‘Dancing With the Stars’ host Tom Bergeron recently responded to a fan’s comment on his Instagram post which indicated who Pat Sajak's replacement might be. The post captured the 68-year-old doing hip thrusts during his workout which was captioned, “It’s impressive until you hear your hip crack.” The comment section was flooded as fans speculated if he’s preparing for the recently opened ‘Wheel of Fortune’ position. One fan wrote, “When you find out that the [Wheel of Fortune] gig is open,” to which Bergeron responded, “No thanks, I’ve developed an aversion to wearing suits.” When another fan asked, “Are you getting in shape to spin the Wheel of Fortune? You'd be great for that job,” the former ‘Hollywood Squares’ host referred fellow TV host Ryan Seacrest replying, “I’m hearing @ryanseacrest is in line for that one. Which is good ‘cause the kid needs the work,” followed by a winky face emoji.
Pat Sajak to bid his goodbyes to ‘Wheel of Fortune’
‘Wheel of Fortune’ host Pat Sajak announced his retirement from the show after 40 years of hosting alongside Vanna White. The news came after the Season 40 finale aired on June 9. Sajak announced on June 13 through a tweet, “Well, the time has come. 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!).” Sajak will continue hosting until June 2024, and no successor has been named yet. However, speculation has risen among fans that Sajak's daughter, Maggie Sajak, could potentially be his replacement.
Well, the time has come. 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!)
— Pat Sajak (@patsajak) June 12, 2023