In the glittering world of showbiz, where spotlights blur the line between wealth and legacy, two names continue to ignite fiery debates: Pat Sajak—the longtime host of Wheel of Fortune, reportedly raking in $15 million a year, and Alex Trebek—the revered host of Jeopardy!, remembered as nothing short of a national treasure.

Pat Sajak and Vanna White remember Alex Trebek

At first glance, it may seem like Pat Sajak is the clear winner. With over 40 years behind the mic, he built a financial empire, working only a few days a month while earning millions. But that very fact has become the spark fueling a growing backlash:
“$15 million a year just to spin a wheel and crack dry jokes?”

In stark contrast, Alex Trebek, who hosted Jeopardy! from 1984 until his death in 2020, is revered on a whole other level. He wasn’t just a game show host—he was a cultural symbol of intelligence, humility, and the celebration of learning. When Trebek passed, it felt like the entire nation had lost a beloved family member. Universities established scholarships in his name, tributes poured in from across the globe, and even a minor planet was named after him. Who else in television can claim that? No one—except Trebek.

MC Alex Trebek qua đời - Báo VnExpress Giải trí

Media analysts don’t hold back:

“Pat is showbiz. Trebek is legacy.”
One made audiences laugh. The other made them think. One brought spinning wheels and chance. The other ignited a lifelong love of knowledge.

The most controversial comparison lies not in money—but in respect. Despite his massive salary, Pat Sajak doesn’t seem to command the same admiration. In a 2024 Variety poll, 87% of respondents named Alex Trebek the ‘most influential game show host of all time.’ Pat Sajak didn’t even crack the top five—an outcome many found shocking, considering his earnings.

Fans have spoken bluntly:

“Pat Sajak earns millions, but Alex Trebek lives forever in our hearts—for free.”
“I never cried when a game show host retired. But I sobbed when Alex died.”

Pat Sajak wrestles with 'Wheel of Fortune' contestant - Los Angeles Times

Some viewers have even begun lobbying for a national monument to honor Trebek, while urging Pat Sajak to “show more grace” after a series of tone-deaf remarks in his final seasons—statements some fans found dismissive or politically divisive.

The final straw came in 2024 when Pat Sajak officially announced his retirement. The public reaction? Lukewarm at best. No candlelight vigils. No emotional speeches. Just a quiet farewell. Compare that to the outpouring of grief when Alex Trebek passed—thousands of flower arrangements, handwritten letters, and millions of heartfelt tributes on social media.

It’s a stark reminder: true legacy can’t be bought. It’s forged in how deeply you touch people’s lives—something Alex Trebek did day in and day out, humbly and brilliantly, for 36 years. Pat Sajak may be the richest man in the game show world, but only Trebek carved his name into the soul of American culture.

And that’s something no paycheck can ever measure.