Connecticut Contestant Makes Wheel of Fortune History

In a moment that will be remembered in television game show history, Christina Derevjanik from Stamford, Connecticut, became the biggest winner in Wheel of Fortune history on September 30, 2025. During a special episode of the 43rd season, Derevjanik secured a total of $1,035,155, setting a new record for the show's highest prize ever awarded.

The episode, which aired on a Tuesday night, featured Derevjanik spinning the coveted $1 million wedge early in the game. Later, she advanced to the bonus round, where she correctly solved the Living Things puzzle with the phrase "pack of coyotes".

Host Ryan Seacrest, who took over hosting duties in 2024, revealed the $1 million envelope, and the studio erupted in cheers and confetti. Seacrest, visibly emotional, congratulated Derevjanik, marking his first-ever million-dollar winner on the show.

Derevjanik's victory was not only historic but also personal. She was accompanied by her boss from Con Edison, where she works as a marketing manager. In a lighthearted moment, she jokingly offered her two-week notice to her boss, adding a humorous touch to the celebratory atmosphere.

The $1,035,155 prize includes $35,155 in cash and additional prizes, such as trips to Yellowstone, Montana, and Tokyo. When asked about her plans for the winnings, Derevjanik expressed her intention to pay off student loans and possibly purchase a home. She also mentioned that she had been visualizing such a win, though she never expected it to become a reality.

This milestone marks only the fourth time in Wheel of Fortune's history that a contestant has won the $1 million grand prize since the special wedge was introduced in 2008. Previous million-dollar winners include Michelle Loewenstein (2008), Autumn Erhard (2013), and Sarah Manchester (2014).

For fans of the show, Derevjanik's record-breaking win is a testament to the excitement and unpredictability that Wheel of Fortune continues to bring to its audience. Her victory not only shattered records but also added a memorable chapter to the show's rich history.

As the 43rd season progresses, viewers can look forward to more thrilling moments and the possibility of witnessing another contestant join the ranks of million-dollar winners. Wheel of Fortune airs weeknights and is available for streaming on platforms like Hulu and Peacock. Christina Derevjanik's achievement serves as an inspiration, reminding us all that sometimes, a single spin can change everything.

While Wheel of Fortune is celebrated for its mix of word puzzles and prize-winning, it occupies a unique space compared to other gambling-style television programs. Unlike high-stakes game shows that rely primarily on luck, such as Deal or No Deal or The Price Is Right, Wheel of Fortune blends strategy with chance. Contestants must choose letters wisely and make calculated decisions on spinning the wheel, creating a balance between skill and fortune that engages viewers and keeps tension high.

Shows like Jeopardy! emphasize knowledge and quick thinking rather than luck, whereas Wheel of Fortune combines trivia-like awareness with the thrill of spinning for cash and prizes. The million-dollar wedge adds an element of suspense akin to casino-style jackpots, but the risk is managed within a structured game format, differentiating it from pure gambling shows.

Additionally, the social and emotional connection is stronger on Wheel of Fortune. Audiences witness contestants’ excitement, personal stories, and reactions to life-changing wins, which enhances the emotional payoff. While Deal or No Deal thrives on suspense and the “all-or-nothing” gamble, Wheel of Fortune provides a more measured, relatable thrill that appeals to a wide demographic.

This recent record-breaking win demonstrates the show’s ability to blend luck, strategy, and viewer engagement into a memorable, life-changing experience, something that few other shows achieve with such consistency. Her historic $1 million win is not just a personal milestone but a reminder of why Wheel of Fortune remains a staple in game show entertainment, offering suspense, strategy, and shared joy in a way that sets it apart from other gambling-style programs.