Additional Coverage:
- ‘Price is Right’ contestant wins a $120,000 Aston Martin — but fans are worried about one big problem (marketrealist.com)
Local Woman Wins Aston Martin on ‘The Price Is Right’—But There’s a Catch
Francesca Penko had a very lucky day on “The Price Is Right” during Dream Car Week, winning a 2016 Aston Martin Vantage GT Coupe valued at $120,000! Penko skillfully navigated the “Spelling Bee” game, where contestants try to collect cards spelling the word “CAR.”
She correctly priced three smaller prizes to earn additional cards, each also worth $5,000. With five cards in hand, she faced a tough decision: walk away with a guaranteed $25,000, or risk it all for the luxury car.
After a quick consultation with the audience, Penko decided to go for it.
Her gamble paid off! The very first card she’d chosen revealed the word “CAR,” securing her the Aston Martin. The studio erupted as Penko celebrated her incredible win with host Drew Carey and the show’s models.
However, the thrill of victory might be tempered by the reality of taxes. Viewers online were quick to point out that Penko will likely face a hefty tax bill on her prize.
Some commenters even suggested taking the $25,000 would have been a wiser financial decision. Indeed, previous winners have reported significant tax burdens associated with their “Price Is Right” winnings.
While the car is a dream come true, the associated costs serve as a reminder that even game show fortunes come with a price.