Pat Sajak, the beloved host of Wheel of Fortune, has shared the spotlight with his wife, Lesly Brown, for over three decades. Their enduring relationship, which began as a friendship, blossomed into a love that has withstood time and fame. Though Pat’s career has been publicly celebrated, his personal life, including his relationship with Lesly, remains more private. Here’s a closer look at the life and story of Pat Sajak’s wife, Lesly Brown.
Who Is Lesly Brown?
Lesly Brown has been by Pat Sajak’s side since 1989, the year they married. Before meeting Pat, Lesly was a model and had aspirations in the entertainment industry. She once graced the pages of Playboy in its “Women of Washington” feature, showcasing her beauty and ambition. Brown attended the University of Maryland, where she graduated with a degree in television production in 1986, laying a foundation that would connect her life to the world of media, though in a very different way than she initially imagined.
The Serendipitous Meeting of Pat and Lesly
The journey that led to their marriage began when Pat and Lesly met through mutual friends at a sports bar opening in 1988. At first, neither saw the other as a romantic prospect. “There was no electricity in the air,” Pat later shared, reflecting on their first meeting. Despite the lack of immediate chemistry, a friendship sparked, and over time, their bond deepened. Frequent phone calls and casual get-togethers slowly transitioned from friendship into love.
One event that pushed Pat to realize his feelings for Lesly was her appearance on The Dating Show, a reality program of that time. Lesly’s participation—and her subsequent trip to Mexico with the bachelor who selected her—evoked jealousy in Pat. He realized that Lesly was the woman he wanted to spend his life with. That summer, Pat proposed to Lesly with a stunning 3-carat marquise diamond ring. By New Year’s Eve 1989, they were married in an intimate ceremony in Maryland.
Life as a Family: Their Children Maggie and Patrick
Pat and Lesly welcomed two children into their lives: Maggie and Patrick Sajak. Maggie, born in 1995, grew up sharing her father’s spotlight, making her first appearance on Wheel of Fortune with her brother when she was just five years old. In recent years, Maggie has taken a more active role in the show. She served as a guest letter-turner in January 2020 and became the show’s social correspondent in 2021.
Lesly and Pat’s son, Patrick, took a different path and pursued a career in medicine. Pat once expressed pride in his son, sharing with the Wheel of Fortune audience that Patrick had graduated from medical school and earned the title “Dr. Sajak.” Unlike Maggie, Patrick prefers to stay out of the limelight, focusing on his career as a doctor.
A Supportive Partner Through Health Challenges
Lesly has shown her dedication to Pat during difficult times, particularly when he faced a severe health scare in 2019. Pat was rushed into emergency surgery due to a blocked intestine, an ordeal he described as incredibly painful. Lesly remained by his side, providing the strength he needed to pull through. Reflecting on his experience, Pat mentioned that he thought of his family during those dark moments. Fortunately, he recovered and returned to Wheel of Fortune soon after, feeling “great.”
Pat Sajak’s Final Farewell to Wheel of Fortune
On June 7, 2024, Pat Sajak officially stepped down from his iconic role on Wheel of Fortune, closing a remarkable chapter in television history. Lesly and their children celebrated this milestone with him, marking an end to a career that spanned over 40 years. Pat’s departure from the show signifies the beginning of a new phase of life for both him and Lesly, one that they look forward to enjoying together after so many years in the spotlight.
Lesly Brown: A Life Largely Out of the Limelight
Despite Pat Sajak’s fame, Lesly Brown has managed to maintain a relatively private life. As a devoted wife, mother, and supporter, Lesly chose to stay in the background, focusing on her family rather than a career in entertainment. The few times she has appeared in the public eye have primarily been to support Pat or to join him on Wheel of Fortune with their children.
Conclusion
Lesly Brown’s journey with Pat Sajak showcases a story of love, resilience, and a shared life that has spanned decades. Though she once had aspirations in entertainment, Lesly chose family over fame, becoming a steady partner to one of television’s most beloved hosts. As Pat transitions into a new chapter post-Wheel of Fortune, Lesly remains at his side, just as she has been for more than 30 years, embodying a partnership that has withstood time, fame, and personal trials.
Frequently Asked Questions about Pat Sajak’s Wife
How did Pat Sajak and Lesly Brown meet?
Pat and Lesly met in 1988 through mutual friends at a sports bar opening. Although they didn’t feel an instant connection, their friendship developed into a deep romantic bond over time.
How long have Pat Sajak and Lesly Brown been married?
Pat and Lesly have been married since New Year’s Eve in 1989, marking more than three decades of marriage.
Do Pat and Lesly Sajak have children?
Yes, Pat and Lesly have two children, Maggie and Patrick Sajak. Maggie is involved in the entertainment industry, while Patrick is a doctor.
Did Lesly Brown work in entertainment before marrying Pat Sajak?
Lesly had a brief career as a model and an aspiring actress, including a feature in Playboy’s “Women of Washington.” However, she chose family life over an entertainment career.
Was Lesly Brown present during Pat Sajak’s health challenges?
Yes, Lesly supported Pat during his 2019 emergency surgery. She stayed by his side, showing her dedication as a wife during his recovery.