Pat Sajak has said goodbye to "Wheel of Fortune" fans, thanking the TV audience "for allowing me into your lives" for 41 seasons as host of the syndicated game show.
In a poignant video ending Friday's season finale, Sajak's final spin of the wheel, he spoke directly to the TV audience.
"Well, the time has come to say goodbye," he said. "It's been an incredible privilege to be invited into millions of homes night after night, year after year, decade after decade. And I've always felt that privilege came with the responsibility to keep this daily half-hour a safe place for family fun. No social issues, no politics, nothing embarrassing, I hope. Just a game."
USA Today reports Sajak said that "Wheel of Fortune," with its global reach, became more than a game. The game show became an event "where families came together along with friends and neighbors and entire generations," Sajak said. "What an honor to have played even a small part in all of that. Thank you for allowing me into your lives."
On June 6, his longtime co-host Vanna White gave a tearful farewell to Sajak with her own video, saying, "I love you, Pat." White will continue on "Wheel of Fortune." In September, Ryan Seacrest will take over as host.
During his farewell, Sajak thanked the "Wheel of Fortune" crew, which includes his daughter Maggie Sajak, who works as the show's social correspondent. Sajak ended the speech by thanking his four-decade show partner, White, whom he called "my professional other half."
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