Pat Sajak shocks fans with his first acting gig post-Wheel of Fortune—starring in Prescription: Murder in Hawaii. Learn about his role, co-star Joe Moore, and why this is their “final onstage collaboration.
Pat Sajak’s Shocking Career Pivot: From Game Show Host to Murderous Psychiatrist in Hawaii
After 41 legendary seasons hosting Wheel of Fortune, Pat Sajak, 78, is trading puzzle boards for stage lights in a thrilling new acting role. The beloved TV icon announced he’ll star in Prescription: Murder, a murder-mystery play at Honolulu’s Hawaii Theatre Center, running July 31–August 10, 2025.
The Role: A Villainous Turn
Sajak will play Dr. Roy Flemming, a cunning psychiatrist who orchestrates his wife’s murder and crafts a foolproof alibi. Opposite him is longtime friend Joe Moore, a KHON-TV newscaster, as the disheveled but sharp Lt. Columbo28. The play, originally written by Columbo creators William Link and Richard Levinson, is a cat-and-mouse thriller with a “surprising climax”.
Gregory D. Dunn, CEO of Hawaii Theatre Center, told People:
“Pat brings immense craft to the stage. Audiences adore him, and he’s generously donated his talents to support our nonprofit venue”.
Why This Gig Matters
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First Major Post-Wheel Project: This marks Sajak’s first significant acting role since retiring in June 2024.
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A Nostalgic Finale: Sajak and Moore confirmed this will “likely be our final time onstage together” after collaborating on six plays, including The Odd Couple (2001) and The Sunshine Boys (2023).
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Charity Focus: Net proceeds benefit the Hawaii Theatre Center, where Sajak has been a longtime supporter.
Behind the Scenes
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Military Bond: Sajak and Moore met decades ago while serving in Vietnam—Sajak as a DJ for Armed Forces Radio, Moore in the 25th Infantry Division.
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Local Love: Theatre manager Justin Jenks praised Sajak’s rapport with Hawaii audiences: “They sell VIP photo ops with him—he’s a stand-up guy who impresses everyone”.
Fan Reactions & Social Media Buzz
Fans are thrilled to see Sajak’s dramatic turn. Twitter user @GameShowFanatic tweeted:
“Pat Sajak as a murderous doctor? I’m HERE for this twist!”
Embedded Video: Watch Sajak’s emotional Wheel of Fortune farewell speech here.
What’s Next for Sajak?
While he’s “realistic” about fewer job offers at 78, Sajak joked to KHON:
“I’ll whittle on my nonexistent front porch… or take projects if they come”.
He’s also:
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Hosting Celebrity Wheel of Fortune’s final season (airing now on ABC).
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Serving as chairman of Michigan’s Hillsdale College, a role he’s held since 2003.
Final Thoughts
Sajak’s shift from family-friendly TV to dark theater proves his versatility. As Dunn noted: “He’s the authentic, kind person you see on TV—but onstage, he’s a powerhouse”.
Will you watch Sajak’s play? Sound off in the comments!
For tickets to Prescription: Murder, visit Hawaii Theatre Center.
