Pat Sajak is a name synonymous with American game show television. His decades-long tenure as the host of Wheel of Fortune has made him a household name. He's become a cultural icon. As he approaches what seems to be his final spin, many are curious about his age.
Sajak was born on October 26, 1946. This means that in 2025, Pat Sajak will be 79 years old. He was born in Chicago, Illinois. He celebrated his birthday every year on October 26.
His career began in radio. He then transitioned to television. Sajak eventually landed the coveted host position on Wheel of Fortune. He has remained there for over four decades. This is a feat rarely seen in the entertainment industry.
Sajak's journey has been marked by numerous milestones. He has received awards. He's also had personal moments that have shaped his life. These events have solidified his place in television history.
From his early days as a radio DJ to his reign as a game show king, Pat Sajak's life is a testament to hard work and talent. His story continues to fascinate audiences. They eagerly await his next chapter, even as he bids farewell to Wheel of Fortune.
Figure Biography
Pat Sajak, born Patrick Leonard Sajdak, is of Polish descent. He was born to Leonard Anthony Sajdak and Joyce Helen. He's best known for hosting Wheel of Fortune.
Born in Chicago, Illinois, on October 26, 1946, Sajak's career began in radio. He later transitioned into television. He gained national recognition as the weatherman for KNBC-TV in Los Angeles. His big break came in 1981. He replaced Chuck Woolery as the host of Wheel of Fortune.
Sajak has won three Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Game Show Host. His last appearance on the show will be June 7, 2024. He is succeeded by Ryan Seacrest as the new host.
He is married to Lesly Brown-Sajak. They have two children, Patrick Michael James Sajak and Maggie Marie Sajak. Maggie has even filled in for Vanna White on Wheel of Fortune.
Sajak's wit and charm have made him a beloved figure. He is known for his quick banter with contestants. He is also known for his friendly interactions with Vanna White.
Complete Bio
| Name | Patrick Leonard Sajdak (Pat Sajak) |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | October 26, 1946 |
| Age (in 2025) | 79 |
| Birthplace | Chicago, Illinois, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Polish-American |
| Occupation | Television Personality, Game Show Host |
| Spouse | Lesly Brown-Sajak |
| Children | Patrick Michael James Sajak, Maggie Marie Sajak |
Career Highlights
Pat Sajak's career is defined by his long tenure on Wheel of Fortune. He began hosting the daytime version in 1981. He then continued with the syndicated nighttime version in 1983.
Before Wheel of Fortune, he was a weatherman for KNBC-TV in Los Angeles. He served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. There he worked as a DJ for Armed Forces Radio.
Sajak's hosting skills have earned him numerous awards. He won three Primetime Emmy Awards. He also received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1993.
He briefly hosted his own late-night talk show on CBS. It was titled The Pat Sajak Show. The show aired from 1989 to 1990.
Sajak has also made appearances in various television shows and movies. These include cameos as himself.
Throughout his career, Sajak has maintained a consistent presence. He has demonstrated professionalism. He has also shown a genuine connection with his audience.
- 1970s: Served as a DJ for Armed Forces Radio during the Vietnam War.
- Late 1970s: Worked as a weatherman for KNBC-TV in Los Angeles.
- 1981: Began hosting the daytime version of Wheel of Fortune.
- 1983: Took over hosting duties for the syndicated nighttime version of Wheel of Fortune.
- 1989-1990: Hosted The Pat Sajak Show on CBS.
- 1993: Received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
- Multiple Years: Won three Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Game Show Host.
- 2023: Announced his retirement from Wheel of Fortune.
- 2024: His final episode on Wheel of Fortune aired on June 7.
Figure Net Worth
As of 2025, Pat Sajak's net worth is estimated to be around $75 million. This substantial wealth is primarily attributed to his long and successful career as the host of Wheel of Fortune.
His salary for hosting Wheel of Fortune was reported to be around $15 million per year. He also earns income from other ventures. These include television appearances and investments.
Sajak owns real estate. He also has various investments. These contribute to his overall financial portfolio. He is a successful businessman. His entertainment career has also contributed to his wealth.
While specific details of his investments are not publicly known, it is clear that Sajak has managed his earnings wisely over the years. He has also secured his financial future.
His enduring popularity and consistent presence on television have solidified his financial success. Pat Sajak is a testament to longevity in the entertainment industry.
Figure Family
Pat Sajak has been married twice. His first marriage was to Sherrill Sajak. That ended in divorce.
In 1989, Sajak married Lesly Brown-Sajak. Lesly is a photographer. She is also a former model. They have two children: Patrick Michael James Sajak and Maggie Marie Sajak.
Patrick has largely stayed out of the public eye. Maggie is more visible. She has appeared on Wheel of Fortune. She has also pursued a career in country music.
The Sajak family has maintained a relatively private life. They occasionally appear together at events. They are mostly out of the public's attention.
There have been no significant controversies or rumors surrounding Sajak's marriage to Lesly. Their relationship appears to be stable and supportive.
Sajak's children have also led relatively private lives. They have pursued their own interests and careers. They have continued to enjoy the benefits of being part of a successful family.
Recent Highlights and Upcoming Projects
Pat Sajak's most recent highlight is his departure from Wheel of Fortune. His final episode aired on June 7, 2024. This marked the end of an era for the game show and for Sajak himself.
While he is stepping away from Wheel of Fortune, Sajak is not entirely retiring from the entertainment industry. He has expressed interest in pursuing other projects. Details about those ventures are still emerging.
He has been involved in writing and producing. He may explore these avenues further. Sajak has also expressed a desire to spend more time with his family.
There have been reports of Sajak potentially working on a new television project. The details of this project are currently under wraps. Fans and industry insiders are eagerly awaiting further announcements.
Sajak's legacy as a game show host is secure. His future endeavors are highly anticipated. He is a major figure in American television history.
He could potentially explore opportunities in theater. Pat Sajak has expressed interest in live performance. He has appeared in a play, Prescription: Murder at Hawaii Theatre in Honolulu.
