Nepotism

A little bit of nepotism plus an Ivy League degree goes a long way. First Son-in-Law Jared Kushner rose to the top of the Washington hierarchy despite zero experience in government or foreign affairs. He was put in charge of the Mexican border and the Middle East and look at the bang-up job that he did. The “Wall” extends from sea to shining sea. Arabs and Israelis are harmonizing “Kumbaya”.

Apparently, the same holds true for Game Show Royalty. Pat Sajak and “Wheel of Fortune” certainly rank at the top of the Game Show heap. When Pat was laid up due to minor surgery, Vanna White assumed hosting duties and none other than Maggie Sajak, Pat’s daughter, filled in as “letter turner”. In fact, Maggie is Wheel’s “Social Correspondent”. Her job description includes “bringing an insider’s look at the show with with new behind-the-scenes features, videos, and insights.” Now that is a demanding job.

How does one qualify for that position? Maggie is a graduate of Princeton, has done graduate work at Columbia, and is currently attending law school. Her “Social Correspondent” duties must not take up much time. Oh by the way, her father is not only the star of the show but also has a stake in the company that owns it. That fact was likely on the top of her resume when she applied for the “ correspondent” gig.

Vanna White still looks great. Her letter-turning skills have not diminished. However, female youth and attractiveness are a key to TV viewership. Look at Fox News. Are there any Barbara Walters or Katie Couric types there?

Rumor has it that Vanna will “retire” in the near future. The leading candidate to replace her is…..Maggie Sajak!

Imagine a future Princeton class reunion. Maggie asks, “What are you doing nowadays, Tiffany?”

“I’m running a hedge fund and making seven figures in salary and bonuses. How about you, Maggie?”

“I’m turning letters on Wheel of Fortune. My senior research project on Medieval Architecture is really coming in handy.”

It isn’t what you know, it’s who you know. Or who your Dad is.

By Ed Dufton