Alan F.

What was it like when you found out you made the show?
That was a great day. just a few days before I got the nod, I was thinking that I wasn't going to get picked. Although it had only been a few months [since I had applied], I really figured I was outskie! But that email inviting me to be a contestant was just about the best email I've ever received! They told me I had to make the decision to participate within 24 hours. Of course, in about 30 seconds I was signing the dotted line, if you get my drift. No doubt about it!

How did you practice?
Although I felt like I was a decent player from 40 years of watching the game on TV, once I downloaded the WOF app and started playing online, I became obsessed! (in a good way). I learned how to control the board through vowel purchases and became more aware of the English language than I ever was. It wasn’t long until I was playing all day and night trying to hone my skills. 

What did you learn from this experience?
It's not as easy as it looks!!  We all think it's a breeze when we’re sitting the couch at home, but let me tell you, the pressure of playing live and being so close to the main man, Pat Sajak — not to mention being within smiling distance to Vanna White — will make your head spin! I was lucky to have the amazing make up team cover up my profuse sweating :)

Any puzzles or spins that surprised you?
The time it took to tape my episode may have been the fastest time has flown in my life. It's a bit of a blur when I try to recap the whole experience. After the game, it took me and my wife Karen, who was in the audience, a while to remember each puzzle. Whenever someone asked me what my favorite wedge on the wheel was, I always said the $10,000 wedge. And now after playing the game, I can confirm that statement!! Cha-ching!!

How will you include your family when your show airs?
As it turns out, my episode is airing on the Jewish holiday, Rosh Hashana. We'll be having a big celebration that day with friends and family to welcome in the new year, 5784 — so it couldn't land on a better day! 

What does Wheel mean to you?
I've been watching Wheel for over 40 years. Thats right, I'm an old guy! But being so familiar with the show, and Pat, and Vanna for so long makes me feel like I'm visiting some old high school buddies of mine. After chatting with Pat — who is a most righteous dude — I felt like I was home. I happened to be in a little shock after the interview segment and Pat talked me off the ledge! I proceeded to rock the house (almost) after that. Thanks Pat, I'll never forget those words of encouragement.