For over 40 years, Vanna White has held what many consider the most enviable job in show business: revealing letters on Wheel of Fortune. Her role on one of television’s most iconic game shows has made her a beloved household name and a symbol of grace and longevity in entertainment.
Working alongside Pat Sajak until his retirement in 2024, White solidified her legacy as a fixture on the show. Following a successful contract renegotiation in 2023, White secured her role through the 2025-2026 season, where she will now team up with incoming host Ryan Seacrest.
From an outsider’s perspective, White’s life seems as glamorous and idyllic as her career. However, the bright smile she brings to Wheel of Fortune masks moments of deep personal heartbreak and struggle that have shaped her behind the scenes.
In an interview with Closer, White shared her outlook on life despite the challenges she’s faced: “Today I am happy just the way things are.” A close friend echoed her strength, telling the magazine: “Vanna is a fighter, and she’s emotionally stronger than she might appear to the public.”
While White has rarely dwelled on these painful experiences publicly, her life off-camera has been marked by significant loss and hardship. Yet, through it all, she has displayed extraordinary resilience, refusing to let adversity define her.
The tragedies in her life stand in stark contrast to her cheerful, unshakable on-screen persona, which has captivated audiences for decades. Whether grappling with loss or navigating personal challenges, White’s quiet determination has allowed her to weather life’s storms and emerge stronger.
Despite her hardships, White continues to shine as a role model for perseverance and grace. Her unwavering professionalism and enduring optimism serve as reminders of the strength that lies beneath the surface.
As Wheel of Fortune enters a new era with Ryan Seacrest, fans remain as devoted as ever to Vanna White, who has proven time and again that she is much more than the face viewers see on their screens. Behind her iconic smile is the story of a woman who has faced life’s darkest moments with courage and resilience.