Vanna White, the beloved co-host of Wheel of Fortune, has become a household name over the decades, cementing her status as one of television’s most iconic personalities. With her radiant smile, impeccable style, and warm demeanor, she has captivated audiences and amassed an impressive net worth that speaks to her success and influence in the entertainment industry.
Vanna White’s Impressive Net Worth
After co-hosting Wheel of Fortune since 1982, Vanna White has built an estimated net worth of $85 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth. Her role on the long-running game show has seen her turn letters and charm audiences for more than 6,000 episodes, all while donning over 5,700 stunning gowns. This lucrative career has made her one of the wealthiest television personalities.
Early Beginnings in Television
Before Wheel of Fortune, Vanna’s first taste of the spotlight came in June 1980 when she appeared on The Price Is Right. As a competitor on the show’s “Contestants’ Row,” Vanna showcased her enthusiasm and charisma, even though she wasn’t featured as a hostess. At the time, legendary host Bob Barker was the face of the program, a role he held until 2007 when comedian Drew Carey took over.
Vanna’s journey to stardom began as a substitute TV personality on Wheel of Fortune. When the show’s original letter-turner, Susan Stafford, departed in 1982, Vanna was selected as her replacement. Her instant connection with viewers earned her a permanent position after just three months. Since then, she has become synonymous with the show, leaving an indelible mark on game show history.
A Multifaceted Career
While Wheel of Fortune remains her primary claim to fame, Vanna has explored other ventures throughout her career. She has acted in several films, including Graduation Day (1981), Goddess of Love (1998), Naked Gun 33 1/3 (1994), and Two Tickets to Paradise (2006). These roles allowed her to showcase her versatility and talent beyond the game show stage.
Vanna’s entrepreneurial spirit has also contributed to her wealth. She launched her own line of yarns called “Vanna’s Choice” in collaboration with Lion Brand Yarns. Additionally, she has published books about sewing, further solidifying her status as a multifaceted personality.
Real Estate Ventures
A significant portion of Vanna’s wealth comes from her investments in real estate. During her marriage to George Santo Pietro, which lasted from 1990 to 2002, the couple owned several lavish properties. After their divorce, Vanna continued to invest in real estate, including apartment buildings and house-flipping projects. These savvy investments have significantly bolstered her financial portfolio.
Annual Earnings and Lifestyle
Vanna White’s salary as co-host of Wheel of Fortune is an impressive $10 million per year. Her income from the game show, combined with her other ventures, has allowed her to maintain a luxurious lifestyle while also giving back to her community. Vanna is known for her philanthropic efforts and dedication to various charitable causes.
Personal Life
Vanna shares two children, Nikko and Gigi, with her ex-husband George Santo Pietro. Despite their divorce two decades ago, the former couple remains dedicated to co-parenting their children. Vanna has often spoken about the importance of family and her gratitude for the life she’s built.
The Future of Wheel of Fortune
In June 2023, Wheel of Fortune co-host Pat Sajak announced his retirement after more than 40 years on the show. This news prompted speculation about Vanna’s future with the program. Initially, Vanna admitted she considered retiring alongside her longtime colleague. However, she ultimately decided to continue, extending her contract through the 2026 season.
Reflecting on Her Journey
During an interview with TV Insider in May 2024, Vanna opened up about her decision to stay on Wheel of Fortune. “When I heard that Pat was retiring, I thought maybe I should retire too,” she shared. “But I’m not ready! We’ll see toward the end of those two years how I feel. I thank God after all these years that I still love my job.”
Vanna also expressed her gratitude for her partnership with Pat Sajak, reminiscing about their decades of working together. “We’ve watched our children grow up together, we’ve traveled all over the world, we’ve eaten hundreds of meals together, we’ve laughed, we’ve cried, we’ve celebrated,” she said. “Gosh, what an incredible and unforgettable journey we’ve had, and I’ve enjoyed every minute of it with you.”
Why Vanna White Loves Her Job
Vanna’s passion for her work is evident in her enthusiasm and commitment. In a 2019 interview with Closer, she shared why she doesn’t plan on retiring anytime soon. “I love my job … so you’re going to see me for a while,” she said. “[What I love most is] how happy we make people … and rich! I mean, how many times do you show up every day and give money away to change people’s lives?”
Her dedication to bringing joy to millions of viewers has made her a cherished figure in the entertainment industry.
Legacy and Influence
Over the course of her career, Vanna White has become much more than a game show co-host. She is a symbol of grace, professionalism, and perseverance. Her ability to adapt and thrive in the ever-changing landscape of television is a testament to her talent and work ethic.
From her early days on The Price Is Right to her decades-long reign on Wheel of Fortune, Vanna has proven that hard work and passion can lead to extraordinary success. Her journey inspires countless individuals, reminding them that dreams can become a reality with determination and resilience.
As Vanna White continues to turn letters and win hearts, she remains a shining example of what it means to be an icon in the world of entertainment. Fans can look forward to seeing her light up their screens for years to come.