The eccentric Wheel of Fortune host, Pat Sajak, is now being dubbed as 'prophetic' by a die-hard fan after a jest made in 2012 came true. It appears Sajak humorously anticipated that Ryan Seacrest would succeed him as the game show's host.
An eagle-eyed fan shared a video recalling Sajak's humorous foresight, quoting the host's past gaffe, "'Seacrest is on speed dial' was the punchline Sajak tossed out back in 2012 after messing up. Little did we know it was a glimpse of the future."
Amid a slew of blunders and growing audience discontent, Sajak, 76, declared in mid-June his intention to retire after 41 years as the face of Wheel of Fortune, planning to remain in an off-camera capacity. However, sources told GLOBE that the departure was Sajak's sole decision.
His retirement news ignited a slew of speculation and star-studded competition for the coveted position, with names like Whoopi Goldberg, Raven-Symoné, and LeVar Burton openly throwing their hats into the ring. But after two weeks of guessing, Seacrest, 48, officially took the baton — an outcome which purportedly did not sit well with co-star Vanna White.
Surprised and slighted by the decision, given her long-time association with the show, White now seeks a pay rise according to insiders. These sources also predict a potential replacement for White with a younger co-host in the pipeline.
On the matter, Seacrest has maintained silence, expressing only humility in taking up the mantle, "I am truly humbled to be stepping into the footsteps of the legendary Pat Sajak."
"Wheel of Fortune Exits: Sajak Seeks Stand-up Comedy Stardom"
After his unceremonious exit from Wheel of Fortune, Pat Sajak is reportedly eyeing a new career venture. Friends reveal that he is contemplating taking a stab at stand-up comedy.
Despite the failure of his late-night talk show in 1989, Sajak's long-term admiration for Johnny Carson, renowned for his hosting skills and sharp wit, has been a significant influence. Over his long stint at Wheel of Fortune, Sajak often brought his comedic sensibilities to the show.
The insider noted, "By stepping down from Wheel now, instead of five or ten years from now, Pat has the chance to invest his time and energy in his real passion — bringing laughter to total strangers."
"He's been waiting for a chance in his busy schedule to pursue comedy full time, and now he has it," the source added. With a fan base spanning the globe, there's no shortage of people ready to buy tickets to see Sajak swap the game show stage for a comedy club.