How Pat Sajak says farewell to 'Wheel of Fortune' viewers in final episode: 'What an honor'

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 video airing on Friday's season finale (check local listings), 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."

The end of an eraPat Sajak set for final 'Wheel of Fortune' episode after more than four decades

But 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."

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Vanna WhiteSends tearful farewell to Pat Sajak on 'Wheel of Fortune': 'I love you, Pat!'

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.