> At a Glance
> – Maggie Sajak, 31, made her Wheel of Fortune hosting debut on May 10, 2023
> – She filled in for Vanna White, who became a contestant for the episode
> – Maggie has served as the show’s social correspondent since 2021
> – Why it matters: The Princeton grad’s rise from baby cameo to co-host signals a generational shift at the 42-year-old game show
From her first appearance as an infant in her father’s arms to stepping behind the iconic puzzle board, Maggie Sajak has grown up in America’s living rooms. Now 31, the daughter of longtime host Pat Sajak is officially part of the show’s future.
From Cradle to Camera
Born January 5, 1995, Maggie literally debuted on Wheel of Fortune as a baby. After Pat’s 2019 health scare, she returned as the “special letter toucher” in 2020 and became the show’s social correspondent in 2021.
Her duties expanded dramatically when she hosted the May 10, 2023 episode-swapping roles with Vanna White, who competed against Mayim Bialik and Ken Jennings for charity.
Maggie announced the gig on Instagram:
> “Warming up for Wednesday”
After the taping, she posted:
> “It was an HONOR filling in for you tonight @officialvannawhite! And congrats on raising $30,000 for @stjude!”
Music, Degrees & Family Ties
Maggie’s résumé extends far beyond the puzzle board:
- Education: Princeton undergrad, Columbia post-grad
- Music: Launched country career at 16 with single “First Kiss”
- Family: Older brother Patrick earned a doctor after graduating medical school in 2021
- Pet: Runs Instagram account for dog Jak, who visited the set in April 2023
She still posts throwbacks of the Sajak clan, including a 2022 Father’s Day snap from her kindergarten dance and frequent behind-the-scenes clips for 2.5 million social followers.
Key Takeaways
- Maggie Sajak, 31, now balances social media duties with occasional hosting
- She substituted for Vanna White during a charity episode that raised $30,000
- Her father Pat announced his retirement in June 2023, calling the next season his last
- Maggie hinted at returning, saying “we’re looking forward to even more fun in Season 41”
With Pat’s departure on the horizon, the Princeton graduate appears ready to keep the wheel spinning for another generation.
