“Years go by fast,” Sajak acknowledged. But, he said, “We’re getting near the end. It’s been a long [time]. We’re not gonna do this for another 40 years. The end is near.”

Pat Sajak Jokingly Leaves Wheel of Fortune Set After Third Contestant Wins $100,000 in Same Week

Sajak celebrated his 40-year hosting anniversary in December with a tribute from his daughter, Maggie. “Happy 40th Wheel-iversary to this guy!” she tweeted alongside a throwback of her father hosting the series. “On this day in 1981, @patsajak hosted his very first episode of @WheelofFortune… and the rest is history!”

The steadfast host has stepped away from the series only once to undergo surgery for a blocked intestine, giving White the chance to host.