Wheel of Fortune first aired in 1983. It was originally called “Shoppers Bazaar.” The starts of Wheel of Fortune are Pat Sajak (host) and Vanna White (uh…letter turner). In this game show, three contestants are trying to solve a word puzzle. They first spin the wheel, which has dollar values. When they land on a dollar value they guess a letter that might be in the name of the puzzle they are trying to solve. That is the amount each instance of that letter is worth if it is in the puzzle. If the letter they guess is not there, they land on bankrupt, or they land on lose a turn, then that player’s turn is over. This cycle continues until someone solves the puzzle on their turn. Only the person who solves the puzzle is awarded cash for that round. There are also prize puzzles with added travel packages or cash. The contestant with the most cash near the end of the show gets to go to the bonus round. In the bonus round, players have the opportunity to win prizes or cash ranging from $30,000 to $100,000. Since the shows beginning they have awarded over 190 millions dollars worth of cash and prizes.
Here is a link to more fun facts about the Wheel: http://www.wheeloffortune.com/showguide/historyandfunfacts/
While watching the advertising during the show this evening I realized there must be a lot of old people viewers. There were commercials for several mattress companies, a couple insurance companies (Safeco, Progressive), Denny’s, and Hometown Buffet in Salem (That place looks like bingo night at lunch time). There was a Buick Sedan commercial. Surprisingly there was a Dew Tour commercial (which I thought was pretty cool). Here is the link to that: http://www.allisports.com/dew-tour
I think this show appeals to people because it is very simple and you have the chance to win Money! Pat is the most diplomatic and gracious speaker on television. I’ve seen instances where there is a contestant that says the most ridiculous thing and Pat finds a way to smooth it over so the person isn’t embarrassed. Watch this video clip: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mvC31fKy9kw. I feel so bad for the lady in the video. I wonder if she knows this video is on YouTube. Pat just knows exactly what to say in every instance. That is why I would like to nominate Pat Sajak for president!
Vanna White - the everlasting icon of beauty in the game show genre – is just as gracious as Mr. Sajak. Unlike other models, I feel Vanna’s smile is REAL and ever-present. Her fashion over the years has been an inspiration to many I’m sure. Her many lovely gowns give the show a touch of high class. Pat dresses nice as well, in his casual tone suits (but they never let Pat’s wardrobe overshadow Vanna’s). The only stereotype I see in Wheel of Fortune is one where every game show (except Jeopardy) has to have some eye-candy.
Vanna White - the everlasting icon of beauty in the game show genre – is just as gracious as Mr. Sajak. Unlike other models, I feel Vanna’s smile is REAL and ever-present. Her fashion over the years has been an inspiration to many I’m sure. Her many lovely gowns give the show a touch of high class. Pat dresses nice as well, in his casual tone suits (but they never let Pat’s wardrobe overshadow Vanna’s). The only stereotype I see in Wheel of Fortune is one where every game show (except Jeopardy) has to have some eye-candy.
We watch Wheel of Fortune and its sister show, Jeopardy, almost every night with dinner. It is a great non-committal show. You don’t have to have any background knowledge. You don’t have to have been watching every night for the last 28 years. And you can start watching at any time during the show. The contestants are always interesting, everyday people, from different parts of the U.S. I think this show has held its position in prime time because of those reasons. Also, I believe Wheel of Fortune appeals to audiences of all ages. My wife enjoys the show, but English is not her first language so some of the phrases or sayings like “a chip on his shoulder” do not make sense. But she enjoys watching people win money, as do I. I am a fan on Facebook and I’m registered on their website as a possible contestant. The only thing I don’t like about this show is that they have not chosen me to be on it. . . . yet!
In conclusion, I think Wheel of Fortune is a great show for all ages. In a constantly evolving prime time line up it is nice to see a good show with good people stand the test of time.
