For the first time in 37 years, “Wheel of Fortune” will feature a new host, according to “Good Morning America.”
Vanna White is stepping in to spin the wheel while Pat Sajak recovers from an emergency surgery. Her first episode airs Dec. 9, “Good Morning America” reported.
Sajak, who has hosted the game show since it premiered in 1982, was revealed to have undergone emergency surgery for a blocked intestine in early November, according to People magazine.
“Wheel of Fortune” tweeted at the time that the surgery was “successful” and that Sajak was “resting comfortably and looking forward to getting back to work.”
White was skeptical about taking the role of host when the producers first approached her, she revealed to “Good Morning America.”
“My first thought was, ‘There’s no way.’ I don’t pay attention to Pat,” White said, according to “Good Morning America.” “I’m busy with my letters and my puzzle board.”
White admitted to feeling “petrified, terrified” about taking on the role, adding, “But I did it,” according to “Good Morning America.”
The beginning of White’s run as host on Monday will also kick off the show’s Secret Santa Holiday Giveaway promotion, according to USA Today. “Wheel of Fortune” tweeted two photos of the show’s holiday festivities with White as host, which includes visits from some Disney characters.
“Wheel of Fortune” is the longest-running syndicated game show in the United States, taping its 7,000th episode this year, according to People.
“We’re one big family,” White told People of the show’s cast and crew. “It’s wonderful.”
Sajak will be resuming the role of host, tweeting Thursday that he was taping in the studio for the first time since his surgery, adding, “Nice to be back.”