On December 2, 2024, Pat Sajak made a return to the small screen, hosting a special holiday edition of “Celebrity Wheel of Fortune” on ABC. This episode marked his first appearance as the host since his retirement from the regular series in June 2024, bringing to an end an impressive 41-year career.
Sajak’s tenure saw him become a staple in many households, turning “Wheel of Fortune” into a recognized cultural staple. His charisma, quick wit, and rapport with contestants led to 19 Daytime Emmy nominations, with three wins including a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2024. Additionally, Sajak possesses the Guinness World Record for the longest career as a game show host, cementing his place as a beloved figure in television.
The holiday-themed episode saw a reunion of Sajak with co-host Vanna White, bringing nostalgia and holiday spirit to viewers. The game featured celebrity participants including Chance the Rapper, Dionne Warwick, and Lil Jon, who played for their selected charities. Chance the Rapper represented SocialWorks, his nonprofit supporting the youth of Chicago, Illinois through arts and education. Dionne Warwick played for the North Jersey Community Research Initiative, dedicated to HIV/AIDS research and prevention. Lil Jon participated on behalf of the Open Paths Counseling Center, a provider of mental health support services.
Adding a touch of humor, Sajak mimicked Lil Jon’s well-known “Yeah!” exclamation, much to the amusement of the rapper and the audience. This moment was a perfect example of Sajak’s ability to inject fun into any situation.
In the competition, Chance the Rapper proved to be a strong player, solving puzzles and progressing to the Bonus Round with $20,500 in winnings. By the conclusion of the episode, he had won a substantial $139,300 for SocialWorks, greatly supporting its mission. Dionne Warwick and Lil Jon also made noteworthy contributions to their respective charities.
The holiday special underscored the enduring popularity of “Wheel of Fortune” and the pivotal role Sajak played in its success. While Ryan Seacrest has stepped in as the host of the regular series, Sajak’s influence is still vital to the franchise. Plans for Sajak to host one final season of the celebrity spin-off in 2025 have been confirmed. For those who missed the original broadcast, a rerun aired on December 11, 2024.
The upcoming season of “Celebrity Wheel of Fortune” is set to feature a roster of exciting stars including Rainn Wilson, Ellie Kemper, Josh Gad, and Tiffany Haddish. The weekly episodes will air on Monday nights at 9 p.m. ET, ensuring the program’s legacy endures.
The return of Pat Sajak was more than just a television event—it was a celebration of his lasting influence. Sajak’s combination of professionalism, humor, and warmth has left a lasting impact on the game show genre, reinforcing his status as a cherished figure in American entertainment.