This “Wheel of Fortune” host makes a shocking career change at 78. Will the iconic show ever be the same again?

The spinning wheel has come to a halt for this iconic host of Wheel of Fortune, as he embarks on a dramatic career pivot at the ripe age of 78.

After captivating audiences for over four decades with the turn of a letter, he is now set to dazzle them from the stage in a thrilling new role.

Here at The GrayVine, we're all about embracing life's transitions, and this host’s latest move is a testament to the timeless adage: it's never too late to reinvent yourself.



A New Act in an Illustrious Career
It's been a year since Pat Sajak bid farewell to the beloved game show that made him a household name.

But retirement from Wheel of Fortune hasn't meant slowing down for this television veteran. Instead, Sajak is returning to his roots in acting, a passion that has intermittently woven through his career.

Sajak is set to star in the play Prescription: Murder at the Hawaii Theater, taking on the role of Dr. Roy Flemming—a psychiatrist with a dark secret and an even darker plan.

The play, which served as the original inspiration for the classic Columbo TV series, promises to be a captivating experience for theatergoers.


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Pat Sajak has made a career change to acting, starring in a play after retiring from hosting Wheel of Fortune . Image source: Grunge / Youtube.



A Friendship Forged in Theater and Service
Joining Sajak on stage is his long-time friend and KHON-TV Hawaii newscaster Joe Moore.

The duo, both 78, have a history that extends beyond the footlights; their bond was first formed in the crucible of the Vietnam War.


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Pat Sajak hosting Wheel of Fortune in 1981. Image source: TODAY / Youtube.



Over the years, they've shared the stage in various productions, including The Odd Couple in 2001 and Dial M for Murder in 2018.

Their upcoming performance in Prescription: Murder is billed as potentially their final bow together—a poignant moment for the pair and their fans.

In earlier news: Pat Sajak takes back the wheel—fans are going wild!



The Hawaii Theater's website teases audiences with the promise of Sajak's character, who has “carried out an ingenious plan to murder his wife, and established a perfect alibi.”

Moore, meanwhile, will don the rumpled coat of Lt. Columbo, the seemingly scatterbrained detective with a knack for unraveling the most complex of crimes.


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This play may mark the final stage appearance together for Sajak and Moore, who have a history of theatrical collaborations. Image source: TODAY / Youtube.



A Legacy of Entertainment
Sajak's departure from Wheel of Fortune in June 2024 marked the end of an era.

In his heartfelt final message, he expressed gratitude for the privilege of being a part of family entertainment that steered clear of controversy and focused solely on fun.

Did you know? The secret's out! Discover how Vanna White earns $10 million in just a few days of work



His commitment to providing a safe space for viewers resonated deeply with his audience, earning him a special place in the annals of television history.

The show's beloved letter-turner, Vanna White, recently reflected on the end of an “unbelievable era” and the personal sadness she felt with Sajak's departure.

Despite this, their friendship endures, with dinners and the comfort of familiar company keeping their bond strong.


Source: TODAY / Youtube.​


A Curtain Call for the Ages
Prescription: Murder is set to run for a limited time from July 31 through August 10, under the direction of Rob Duval.

The cast includes Bryce Moore, Therese Olival, Amy K. Sullivan, and Aiko Chinen, all of whom will share the stage with Sajak and Moore in what promises to be a memorable production.

Read next: The wheel turns again: Pat Sajak makes a surprise return to Wheel of Fortune—but there’s a twist

Key Takeaways

  • Pat Sajak has made a career change to acting, starring in a play after retiring from hosting Wheel of Fortune.
  • He is appearing in the play Prescription: Murder at the Hawaii Theater, alongside his friend and newscaster Joe Moore.
  • This play may mark the final stage appearance together for Sajak and Moore, who have a history of theatrical collaborations.
  • Sajak reflected on his time as host of Wheel of Fortune with gratitude and emphasized the show's role as a family-friendly program devoid of social issues and politics.

Have you followed his journey from Wheel of Fortune to the stage? Are you planning to see him perform in Prescription: Murder? Let's discuss the enduring impact of this entertainment icon and the excitement of new beginnings in the comments below!
 

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