Wheel of Fortune history was made when Christina Derevjanik of Stamford, Connecticut, walked away with the show’s biggest prize ever. The contestant stunned both the audience and host Ryan Seacrest with her incredible victory, which instantly became a milestone moment for the long-running game show.
According to Fox News, her winning chance came during the bonus round. Derevjanik solved the puzzle, which read “PACK OF COYOTES,” and stood anxiously as Seacrest prepared to reveal the prize card. When the envelope opened, the studio erupted in cheers.
Ryan Seacrest Announces The Wheel Of Fortune Million-Dollar Win
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Seacrest revealed that Derevjanik had earned $1,035,155, the largest prize ever given on the program. Vanna White rushed across the stage to embrace her, while Seacrest’s voice broke with emotion. “Congratulations, you’re my first million-dollar winner. I have a tear in my eye,” he told her.
This was no ordinary win. Derevjanik became only the fourth contestant in history to secure the million-dollar grand prize. She was also the very first to do so under Seacrest’s leadership. The Wheel of Fortune’s million-dollar win not only changed her life but also signaled the start of a new era for the show.
A Milestone For The Beloved Game Show
Seacrest later reflected on the victory in an Instagram post. “Ecstatic doesn’t even cover it, my first million-dollar win just set a new Wheel record! Biggest win ever. Biggest grin ever. I’ll never forget this moment.”
The host had shared months earlier that his hope for 2025 was to award a million-dollar prize. His wish became reality in dramatic fashion. With this wheel of fortune million-dollar win, Christina Derevjanik secured a place in television history. The show, now entering its next chapter with Seacrest and White, continues to prove why it remains one of America’s most beloved game shows.