Pat Sajak, the veteran host of the iconic game show “Wheel of Fortune,” recently found himself in hot water when a seemingly innocuous question he asked co-host Vanna White sparked controversy. The incident happened during Wednesday night’s episode, and while it drew groans from the studio audience, it also sparked a firestorm of criticism from viewers watching at home. Accusations of impropriety and harassment quickly surfaced, sparking debate over whether Sajak’s question was actually offensive or just a misguided attempt at humor.
The question arose after contestant Ashley Fabian, a professional opera singer, emerged victorious with a whopping $67,410 in cash and other prizes. With Fabian’s operatic background in mind, Sajak decided to engage in a brief conversation about the art form with his co-host while the credits rolled and the show ended.
Are you an opera fan at all? Sajak asked White.
“Yes. I enjoy opera, but I’m not a fan of it,” she said.
Have you ever seen a naked opera? I’m just curious,” Sajak continued.
There were several laughs and numerous groans in response from the studio crowd.
Ever the professional, White kept a smile on her face as she silenced Sayaka. She replied firmly, “No,” and it was clear to Sajak from her tone that he shouldn’t push it any further.
Sajak’s question on the TV show, which bordered on harassment, sparked a debate on social media.
One Twitter user said: “I feel like I just witnessed a #metoo moment on Wheel of Fortune?”
“What did we just hear?” my wife and I exchanged puzzled looks. someone contributed to the site.
A third person chimed in: “Did Pat Sajak just ask Vanna White if she watches the opera naked?”
“The dude is doing everything he can to keep his enthusiasm for the job. Another contestant added: “I’m shocked he didn’t start torturing the contestants during the broadcast.”
“I’m sorry Vanna had to put up with Pat’s ‘me too’ comments while he kept grinning. She thinks he’s funny but his humor is off the mark. Kids can see that when they watch this show. He needs to go immediately,” he wrote on Twitter by one former supporter.
Someone on the Wheel of Fortune, please change this man. Pat Sajak asking Vanna White if she’s ever watched an opera naked is totally wrong. Are you serious? Rude,” wrote the offended fan.
“Have you ever seen an opera in your underwear? Vanna White was approached by Pat Sajak. When did Wheel of Fortune become a late-night game show? The second critic chimed in.”
One person believed that Sajak’s joke was hardly original and that Boomers were the wrong generation.
“The target demographic for this program is baby boomers. They find these events fun and completely appropriate. One woman said, ‘The bike is out of touch with the younger audience and their beliefs.’
“Not very suitable and cringe? Yes… Cancelable? No,” said another.
Ultimately, whether Pat Sajak’s question to Vanna White was a genuine lack of judgment or a harmless prank gone wrong is up for interpretation. What remains clear is that she sparked a dialogue about the limits of humor and the evolving expectations placed on public figures in an age of social media and heightened awareness of sensitive issues. As discussions continue, it is likely that this incident will serve as a point of reference in ongoing conversations about decency and entertainment in the modern age.