Television icon Vanna White has been turning letters and capturing hearts on "Wheel of Fortune" for decades. Her charm and grace have not only made her a household name but have also translated into an impressive net worth of $85 million. Let's dive into her fascinating career journey and explore how she built this impressive fortune.
How Vanna White Built Her $85 Million Empire
Vanna's journey to fame started in 1982 when she became the beloved letter-turner on "Wheel of Fortune." Over the years, she has graced more than 6,000 episodes of the long-running game show, wearing over 5,700 stunning gowns along the way. Her dedication and professionalism have earned her a special place in the hearts of millions of fans worldwide. According to Celebrity Net Worth, her estimated net worth stands at $85 million, a testament to her enduring career and smart financial decisions.
While Vanna is synonymous with "Wheel of Fortune," her journey into television began earlier. In June 1980, she made her TV debut on "The Price Is Right," appearing as a contestant in the iconic "Contestants' Row." At that time, the legendary Bob Barker was hosting the show, bringing his charismatic presence to the screen until his retirement in 2007. Bob was then replaced by comedian Drew Carey, who has kept the show's spirit alive.
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Vanna's career took off when she became a substitute hostess on "Wheel of Fortune." When Susan Stafford, the original letter-turner, left the show in 1982, Vanna stepped into the role and quickly became a fan favorite. Within just three months, she was offered a full-time position, marking the beginning of her remarkable career on the show. Since then, she has become an indispensable part of the "Wheel of Fortune" family, working alongside host Pat Sajak.
But Vanna's talents extend beyond game shows. She has also dabbled in acting, starring in films such as "Goddess of Love" in 1998, "Graduation Day" in 1981, "Naked Gun 33 1/3" in 1994, and "Two Tickets to Paradise" in 2006. Her versatility and charm have allowed her to explore various facets of the entertainment industry, further cementing her status as a multifaceted star.
Vanna White's Generous Annual Salary
According to Celebrity Net Worth, Vanna earns a staggering $10 million per year from her work on "Wheel of Fortune." Her success has allowed her to invest in real estate, including apartment buildings and flipping houses. She previously shared her life with ex-husband George Santo Pietro, whom she married in 1990 and divorced in 2002. Together, they have two children, Nikko and Gigi, who continue to be a source of joy in her life.
Vanna's financial success isn't limited to her work on "Wheel of Fortune." She has also ventured into other ventures, such as modeling for Playboy and creating her own line of yarns with Lion Brand Yarns called "Vanna’s Choice." Additionally, she has authored books on sewing, showcasing her creativity and entrepreneurial spirit.
Will Vanna White Retire From 'Wheel of Fortune'?
After four decades of dazzling audiences on "Wheel of Fortune," fans might wonder if Vanna is ready to hang up her heels. However, don’t expect her to step away anytime soon. In a candid conversation with Closer in December 2019, Vanna revealed her reasons for continuing her beloved role. “I love my job … so you’re going to see me for a while,” she shared. “There’s nothing like making people happy—and rich! It’s amazing to show up every day and change lives.”
In June 2023, Pat Sajak announced his retirement from "Wheel of Fortune." Following the news, Vanna extended her contract on the show through the 2016 season. Pat’s final episode aired in June 2024, marking over 40 years of collaboration with Vanna. While she initially considered retiring alongside Pat, she ultimately decided to continue her journey on the show.
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“When I heard Pat was retiring, I thought maybe I should retire too,” Vanna admitted during an interview with TV Insider in May 2024. “But I’m not ready! We’ll see how I feel after these two years. I’m incredibly grateful that I still love what I do after all these years.”
Vanna expressed heartfelt gratitude for Pat during his final episode. “We’ve watched our children grow up together, traveled the world, shared countless meals, and celebrated life’s ups and downs. It’s been an unforgettable journey, and I’ve cherished every moment with you,” she said, emotional tears streaming down her face.
