Television host Vanna White has decided to spend a few more years on the long-running game show, “Wheel of Fortune.” However, fans of the show are not happy about this and blasted her online.
White has reportedly signed a two-year extension on her contract, while her co-host, Pat Sajak, will be leaving “Wheel of Fortune” at the end of Season 41.
The two usually walk arm-in-arm after being introduced by the announcer on the show. This time, White will be alongside fellow TV presenter Ryan Seacrest, who will replace Sajak for Season 42 in the fall of 2024.
White’s contract will run until between 2025-2026, said producers on September 19, 2023. The 66-year-old game-show hostess has been on the since the 1980s.
Fans Say White Is ‘Too Old’ for the Show
Facebook users shared their views about White’s contract renewal and expressed their displeasure after learning she would stay on for two more years.
“She needs to retire. I like her, but time for her to go also,” said one social media user on a Facebook post about the news. Another added, “I agree. Make room for the younger ones.”
Someone else commented, “You’re ready to retire and you’re a multi-millionaire. Just take it and go.” “It is time for her to retire,” one other person concurred.
Another Facebook user penned, “It will surprise me if she stays two more years, that woman is older than you realize!!! She needs to go when Pat goes!!!” While another exclaimed, “Right on!!!” in response.
Someone else commented on the post, “Needed to retire,” while another online user stated, “Too old and needs cheeseburger a few times a week.”
Another person wrote on the Facebook platform, “She’s too old. Step aside for a younger prettier replacement,” while one agreed, “Exactly.”
Although others are unhappy about White’s decision to stay on the show, some fans are rooting for her. They commented on the Facebook post with one person writing, “You’re great, Vanna.”
“They better pay your big bucks. She’s the only reason I’m going to tune in next season,” one individual penned. Another said, “She deserves it.”
One fan congratulated White, saying, “Congratulations! So glad you are staying on!” Another echoed the same sentiments, writing, “Congratulations! I’ve always liked her.”
One Facebook user candidly commented, “I’m a big Vanna fan. Bet she cried all the way to the bank because she hasn’t had a ‘pay raise’ for 20 years!”
White on ‘Wheel of Fortune’ Bosses
Following news of Sajak’s retirement, an insider revealed how White reacted when the show’s bosses announced Seacrest as his successor instead of her. The source divulged the South Carolina native feels like the bosses think she is “replaceable” and do not respect her, adding:
“She was disappointed that they didn’t give her more of a chance to take over Pat’s job, or that she wasn’t able to give her two cents on the replacement.”
Sajak publicly announced his departure from “Wheel of Fortune” in June 2023 on Twitter. He began his post by stating the time had come for him to bow out, adding the 41st season would be his very last on the syndicated show.”It’s been a wonderful ride, and I’ll have more to say in the coming months. Many thanks to you all,” said the veteran television star, aged 76 – who has hosted the show since 1981.
Less than two weeks after his announcement, Seacrest was announced as his successor. The radio and TV personality spoke excitedly about his new upcoming gig during an appearance on “Good Morning America” in September 2018.
When asked how fun it would be for him to give away all the money during his tenure, he answered, “That’s the best part.” He revealed that he is a big fan of “Wheel of Fortune” and finds himself trying to work out the puzzles in his living room and that he has already started practicing to be the host.