Additional Coverage:
- ‘Wheel of Fortune’ contestant fails to solve puzzle even though the most important word was obvious (marketrealist.com)
‘Wheel of Fortune’ Contestant Misses Out on Big Prize After Bonus Round Fail
A “Wheel of Fortune” contestant experienced the thrill of victory and the agony of defeat in a recent episode. Ryan Halsey racked up an impressive $39,450 and a trip to Costa Rica before heading into the Bonus Round. With a new Ford car potentially on the line, the pressure was on.
Host Ryan Seacrest, after a playful exchange with Halsey’s parents, Tim and Jerry, presented the bonus puzzle in the “Phrase” category. The initial letter reveal – “__L _E EL _ _ _ TE” – left much to be desired.
Halsey chose G, F, H, and O, unveiling “_ O_L _E EL_GHTE“. With the fourth word, “delighted,” practically spelled out, victory seemed within reach.
However, the 10-second timer proved to be Halsey’s downfall. Despite being close, he couldn’t piece together the phrase “I would be delighted” in time, missing out on the Ford. Seacrest, revealing the answer and the car Halsey could have won, offered words of encouragement, noting that Halsey had been “on to it.”
Despite the obvious disappointment, Halsey remained gracious, accepting his defeat with a smile. After all, he was still walking away with nearly $40,000 and a trip to Costa Rica.
However, fans watching at home weren’t as forgiving. Many took to social media to express their disbelief, with comments ranging from surprised disappointment to outright exasperation at what they perceived as an easy solve.
One commenter lamented, “EVEN I KNEW WHAT THE PUZZLE WAS!!!!!!” highlighting the collective frustration felt by viewers.