In theory, game shows having a defined set of rules ensures everything is clear, understandable, and consistent for all participants. But for a game like Wheel of Fortune, terminology can be a variable, and some fans believe an unfamiliar phrase had no place on the game show.
Since its inception in the ’70s, Wheel of Fortune has been rooted in phrases and recognizable terms. Today hosted by Pat Sajak, the show offers categories like places, meals, “in the kitchen,” and many more. But an answer in the Person category left contestant Julie – and many viewers – quite stumped.
‘Wheel of Fortune’ introduces some terminology unfamiliar to the contestant
On Friday’s game, contestant Julie, a native of Wylie, Texas, amassed over $15,000. She then chose the Person category for the bonus puzzle question. She initially chose G, M, O, and P as her additional letters. The puzzle was then whittled down to “_O_N_ _NG P_RTNER.” That’s when Julie was unable to solve no further.
RELATED: ‘Wheel Of Fortune’ Contestant Cheats Herself Of Grand Prize After One Letter Misstep
The correct answer was “FOUNDING PARTNER.” However, Julie could not get the rest of the answer. As a result, she was unable to win $40,000. So, what is a founding partner? Another way to describe the Founding Fathers? Not quite. Corporate Finance Institute defines the term as “the shareholder or shareholders of one of the first companies acquired by an equity-backed platform company.”
‘Wheel of Fortune’ fans want terminology like this stricken from the game
Viewers were indignant on Julie’s behalf. One Twitter user wrote, “Founding partner is not a thing: founding fathers YES. Such BS.” Another added, “While founding partner is a business term, I don’t think a lot of people would’ve gotten it. It really was quite a tricky one. Just shows that WOF would use anything.”
While founding partner is a business term, I don't think a lot of people would've gotten it. It really was quite a tricky one. Just shows that WOF would use anything.
— Evan Kaplan (@EvanKap41870757) March 20, 2023
While that user recognized the phrase as an economics term, others had never heard of it. “They’re just making up stuff now,” suggested one Twitter user. Another argued, “Founding Partner? The writers really phoned that one in!”
What is the most obscure answer you’ve ever heard on the game show, and should ones like “Founding Partner” stick around?
