Pat Sajak Reveals Montana Move 1 Year After Leaving Wheel of Fortune

Q: As 'Wheel of Fortune's' consultant, what influence does Pat Sajak hold over the show's new era?

Pat Sajak still has limited but real influence over “Wheel of Fortune” through a behind-the-scenes consulting role, not as an on-air decision-maker. Sony Pictures Television previously said he would remain a consultant for three years after his final season as host, which means his formal tie to the show runs until at least June 2027. In practical terms, that gives the new era led by Ryan Seacrest access to Sajak’s institutional knowledge after more than four decades fronting the franchise. His value is likely in advising on tone, pacing, contestant interaction, and preserving the show’s familiar rhythm as it transitions to a new host. That matters because “Wheel” has long depended on consistency and audience comfort as much as gameplay. At the same time, there is no public evidence that Sajak is shaping the show day to day or directing its creative future. The current on-air identity belongs to Seacrest, while Vanna White remains a key continuity figure and Maggie Sajak continues as social correspondent. Season 43 has already wrapped under Seacrest, and the syndicated show has been renewed into its next seasons, suggesting the transition is now operationally in the hands of the current team. So Sajak’s influence is best understood as advisory and symbolic: he remains a respected source of guidance and continuity, but the show’s new era is being carried forward by Seacrest, White, and Sony’s production leadership.

3 articles · Updated · USA TODAY · Jun 15

Pat Sajak told fans in a June 14 video on X that he has moved to Montana and is "enjoying life" after retirement.
The 79-year-old posted the rare update because viewers had been asking how he was doing, ending the clip with a deadpan cattle joke.
Sajak left the weeknight "Wheel of Fortune" in June 2024 after roughly 40 years, and Ryan Seacrest took over that September.
He stayed tied to the franchise through "Celebrity Wheel of Fortune" until that spinoff's final episode aired in June 2025.
Away from television, Sajak still serves as chairman of Hillsdale College's board, a role he has held since 2019.