Melissa S.

When I found out I was going to be a contestant on Wheel of Fortune, I was filled with excitement, disbelief and honestly, some nausea! Would I be as good in person as I was sitting on my family room sofa, where I had won imaginary millions? Back in 2021, I had sent in an audition video at the request of my family who were tired of me “buying vowels” and shouting out puzzle answers at the TV every night. Nightly episodes of Wheel was how we spent our family time — before, after or during dinner! 

Preparing for the show was so different than I imagined. I brushed up on strategies and game types, practiced for my contestant interview (“How many LAKES are actually IN Lake in the Hills?”) and mentally prepared myself for the pressure of being on national television. But no amount of practice could replicate the adrenaline and excitement of being on the actual set! 

Being on Wheel of Fortune taught me several valuable lessons. It reinforced the importance of staying calm under pressure, thinking on my feet, and adapting to unexpected situations. It was all such an amazing whirlwind. I learned SO much about what goes on behind the scenes of a Wheel production, and it actually made me SO excited to watch the show AFTER my taping! I now know all of the hard work that goes into making it happen and can appreciate watching even more.

It’s amazing how much you FORGET after you are done taping your show! I had to keep asking my husband for more details on the puzzles, as well as how I performed. Thank goodness I will get to see everything on the show when it airs. One last surprise: the wheel is HEAV-Y! Of all the things to be nervous about, spinning the wheel and not looking crazy gave me the most anxiety! 

It was SO great to have my husband Erwin join me for the trip, it definitely made the journey even more meaningful. We did a fun Hollywood tour and saw all the famous sites. It didn’t hurt that we were surrounded by excited Taylor Swift Fans who were seeing the last final shows of her U.S. tour in Los Angeles! 

To celebrate my appearance, we’re hosting a watch party at a local restaurant and inviting friends and family. I cannot WAIT to have them share in my experience at the studio in real time, and to cheer me on! They know I am such a big fan of Wheel, Pat, Vanna, Maggie and Jim! 

Wheel of Fortune isn't just a game show — it really is an amazing representation of hope, dreams, and the magic of television. It honors the idea that ordinary people can have extraordinary experiences! It was an adventure that taught me that if you have a goal or dream, just go for it! My time on Wheel of Fortune was full of emotions, surprises, and just sheer gratitude. From the initial call to the final solve, every moment was a cherished memory that I will carry with me forever.  I haven't stopped smiling yet! The show not only gave me the chance to live out a lifelong dream but also taught me the power of perseverance, family, and the thrill of the unexpected. As I look back on this incredible journey, I can't help but feel thankful for the experience of a lifetime!