Ryan H.

Wheel of Fortune has been part of my life for as long as I can remember.
Ever since I was a baby sitting in a high chair eating dinner, my parents and I have watched the show together. We’ve guessed letters, helped each other solve puzzles, and ended nearly every episode saying, “One of us should really go on this show.”

I was actually on the phone with my mom when I saw the email pop up letting me know I’d made it on. I read it out loud immediately — and she started to cry. My parents have been incredibly supportive and encouraging throughout this entire journey. It’s been amazing to have them with me every step of the way (though I know my mom was also secretly excited about seeing Vanna in person!).

Being on the show was an unforgettable experience.
I started as an alternate, then was lucky enough to come back and play the game for real. When filming wrapped, one of the producers joked that I could officially say I’d been in the Wheel of Fortune studio for 24 hours — and honestly, I wish I could come back for more.

Everyone on the Wheel team was welcoming, supportive, and clearly committed to helping contestants succeed. From Shannon, one of the contestant coordinators, giving us rapid-fire drills of letter-calling before taping, to Stage Director Jimmy sharing travel tips for the trip I won — every part of the experience was smooth, joyful, and fun.

What really stood out was the bond between contestants.
We spent the day laughing, singing along to music, swapping travel stories and coffee-making tips, and cheering each other on when someone solved a puzzle or made it to the Bonus Round. Shoutout to the contestant department — they clearly know how to bring together a group of genuinely kind, fun, and easygoing people.

If you're thinking about becoming a contestant, here’s my biggest piece of advice:
Slow down.
It’s easy to get overwhelmed when you step onto that iconic stage and realize — you’re actually playing Wheel of Fortune. But take a breath, focus, and trust everything your brain knows. Whether you win big or not, the goal is to walk away knowing you gave it your all — and not let nerves get in the way.

And yes — it’s a total cliché, but: Have fun.
You’re doing something so few people get to do: competing on one of the longest-running (and, dare I say, best) game shows on TV. Soak it all in, enjoy every moment, and give it your best shot.

You've got this!