Additional Coverage:
- ‘Wheel of Fortune’ contestant who inherited special talent from his dad wins $40,000 in Bonus Round (marketrealist.com)
Brad Vangeli Claps His Way to a $40,000 “Wheel of Fortune” Bonus Round Win, Thanks to a Family Tradition!
Los Angeles, CA – Forget luck and strategy for a moment, because “Wheel of Fortune” contestant Brad Vangeli just proved that sometimes, a good old-fashioned family tradition can be the secret ingredient to a big win! Vangeli, who inherited a rather enthusiastic clapping style from his father, took home a whopping $72,890, becoming the fourth grand prize winner in recent weeks.
Stepping into the Bonus Round with $32,890 and a coveted wild card, Vangeli immediately caught the attention of host Ryan Seacrest – not just for his puzzle-solving prowess, but for his incredibly energetic applause. Seacrest, clearly amused, dubbed him “Brad the Clapper,” and Vangeli proudly attributed his vibrant clapping to his dad.
“And is Dad the originator of the strong clap?” Seacrest inquired.
“He must be. And then my brother got it, and I got it,” Vangeli confirmed, amidst cheers from his supportive family in the audience.
The excitement didn’t stop there, as Vangeli also announced he and his wife are expecting their first child, prompting another wave of applause.
For the Bonus Round, Brad chose the “Living Thing” category. After receiving the standard R, S, T, L, N, E, he added C, H, P, O, and smartly used his wild card for an F.
The puzzle board then presented: L, _, R, _, E, F, O, _, H, O, _, N, _. With only 10 seconds on the clock, Vangeli initially stumbled, muttering “Large foghorn, large…” before a sudden flash of inspiration.
“Foxhound. Yes.
Foxhound,” he exclaimed, correctly guessing “Large Foxhound” to the delight of everyone watching.
Seacrest then unveiled the grand prize: an additional $40,000, bringing Vangeli’s total winnings to an impressive $72,890. Fans online were quick to celebrate the win, especially during “Secret Santa” week, with many commending Vangeli’s infectious energy and his father’s inspiring influence.
Comments flooded social media, with @josephconradbulaclac exclaiming, “4th $40,000 Dollars Winner Congratulations Brad!!!!” @myles-spikewebby8519 joyfully added, “The curse is over.
Finally got a win. WTG Brad!!!!
Hey Brad’s dad!!!!” @loveforeignaccents chimed in with, “I would never have gotten the second word no matter how much time you gave me.
Brad was such a great player & his dad a hoot, too! Best wishes ahead for a healthy baby!!”
The father-son duo received further praise, with @Animegamespublishing stating, “Congratulations Brad on winning the bonus round thanks to his father’s help,” and @A_Box_Of_Scraps humorously noting, “His Dad gave him The Clapper! lol” Finally, @jamesmcilwee8939 applauded, “Way to go, Brad!
Great way to end the Secret Santa Week this week! Your family must be so proud!”
It seems a little family spirit (and a lot of clapping) goes a long way on “Wheel of Fortune”!