'Wheel of Fortune' host Pat Sajak speaks out after health scare: 'The worst has passed'

Taryn Ryder
Updated

Pat Sajak is on the mend after last week's emergency surgery. The iconic game show host tweeted Monday that he's "so grateful for all the good wishes during my recent illness," adding, "the worst has passed." Sajak, 73, assured fans he'll return to Wheel of Fortune soon, unless Vanna White "has completely taken over."

On Friday, it was announced that Sajak successfully underwent surgery "to correct a blocked intestine." Taping was canceled one day prior.

"He is resting comfortably and looking forward to getting back to work," a message posted to the Wheel of Fortune social media channels read. "Taping resumed today as scheduled and Vanna White has stepped in as host."

The account also shared a photo of White, 63, in her new role.

Sajak and White have been part of the syndicated version of Wheel of Fortune since its inception in 1983. It's the longest-running syndicated game show in the U.S. with Sajak holding the Guinness World Records title for having the longest career as a game show host for the same show. Wheel of Fortune taped its 7,000th episode last year.

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