Wheel of Fortune’ Player Fails To Solve This Puzzle, Misses Out On $1 Million

Note: we are republishing this story which originally made the news in September 2024.

“Wheel of Fortune” has a reputation for delivering thrills—and heartbreak—and contestant Vivian experienced both in a single night. On Monday, Sept. 16, Vivian secured a major win on the popular game show, now hosted by Ryan Seacrest alongside longtime co-host Vanna White. However, a Bonus Round stumble cost her the chance to take home a jaw-dropping $1 million.

Contestant Vivian looking at an unfinished puzzle, Photo Credit: GatoradeMVP/X — *Contestant Vivian looking at an unfinished puzzle, Photo Credit:* GatoradeMVP/X

In a dramatic twist, Vivian landed on the $1 million wedge during the regular game, making it a potential prize for the Bonus Round. The stakes couldn’t have been higher as she approached the final puzzle with a mix of confidence and pressure.

For the Bonus Round, Vivian was given the default letters “R, S, T, L, N, E” and selected additional letters, even using her Wild Card to make an extra guess. The board revealed: “_ _ _ERING S _ ME HELP.”

Host Ryan Seacrest looking at the camera while spinning the wheel, Photo Credit: GatoradeMVP/X

With only 10 seconds to solve the puzzle, Vivian made several guesses, including “ordering some help,” “answering some help,” and “finding some help.” Unfortunately, none were correct. As the timer buzzed, the correct answer—”OFFERING SOME HELP”—appeared on the board.

The room fell silent as Seacrest revealed the $1 million card Vivian could have won, turning it toward the audience for a heartbreaking moment of realization. Vivian stood frozen, her mouth agape in disbelief.

Still processing her loss, Vivian managed to reply, “I’m OK.”