Wheel of Fortune
Spin the wheel, guess the letter, and solve the puzzle before your opponents beat you to the buzzer. Wheel of Fortune turns the classic game of Hangman into prime-time spectacle, with a giant carnival wheel, themed puzzle rounds, and life-changing cash prizes.
Created by Merv Griffin, Wheel of Fortune debuted as a daytime NBC show in 1975 with Chuck Woolery, then launched its iconic syndicated nighttime version on September 19, 1983 with Pat Sajak and Vanna White. Sajak hosted for 41 years, retiring after the June 7, 2024 finale. Ryan Seacrest took over on September 9, 2024, with Vanna White continuing as co-host.
What makes it unique: Wheel is the longest-running syndicated game show in U.S. television history, holding the Guinness record for most-watched syndicated program. The Million Dollar Wedge (introduced 2008) turned the Bonus Round into a jackpot chase, and Autumn Erhard's $1,030,000 win on May 30, 2013 remains one of the largest single-day prizes ever awarded on daytime TV. The show films more than 190 episodes per season across themed weeks shot on location in Las Vegas, Hawaii, and other destinations.
Quick Facts
- Hosts: Ryan Seacrest (since Sept 2024); Vanna White, co-host
- Network: Syndicated (CBS Media Ventures)
- Premiere Year: 1975 (NBC daytime), 1983 (syndicated nighttime)
- Seasons: Currently in Season 43 (2025–2026)
- Filming Location: Sony Pictures Studios, Culver City, California
Learn more: wheeloffortune.com · Wikipedia
Relive the show’s most unforgettable wins and surprises.
Blunders, close calls, and the biggest what-ifs.
Was it pure luck or strategy? Explore the moments that blur the line in Wheel of Fortune!
Learn the rules and strategies to play like a pro!
Fun facts and behind-the-scenes trivia from the show’s history.
Meet the hosts — past and present.
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Get Tickets to be in the studio audience and watch in person!
Find out how to audition and compete on the show!
Spin the wheel, buy vowels, and solve the puzzle before time runs out in our free word game!
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