A Salute to Game Shows - Wheel of Fortune

How to be a contestant!

Hasn't everyone thought about being a contestant on Wheel of Fortune, in order to get their own chance to spin the wheel, at some time or another? Here's how to go about making that dream a reality!

First off, here's a little background information about getting on the show one day. First of all, you can only be a contestant once in your life. If you have already been on the show, and your heart stops and it is later restarted, you will need to contact Wheel of Fortune to see if that qualifies you for a second appearance on the show.

Aside from that, if you're picked as a contestant, you have eighteen months to be on the show. So if you're picked, you could be taping tomorrow, or a year and a half from now. So be on your toes at all times! If you are what it takes to get the right geographical mix on a certain episode, pack your bags! You're going to L.A.!

If you do get on, and then win something (anything), you will have to pay taxes on it, giving Uncle Sam his fair share, within 120 days from the day your episode airs. That, however, will not stop your old Aunt Hilda from asking where your check is, and why you haven't gotten it yet.

Shows tape five in a day, and air about a month later. Twice a month, contestant coordinators travel out of L.A. for contestant searches. Local TV stations get the word out that they're coming.

If you are going to be in the Los Angeles area, go interview to be a contestant! Send a postcard to the following address:

WHEEL OF FORTUNE
"Contestant Auditions"
10202 W. Washington Blvd. Suite 2000
Culver City, CA 90232

On the postcard, please specify the date you want to audition, as well as your name, address, and phone number. Who knows? They may want to contact you! If you're selected to be a contestant, you will have to travel to Los Angeles or otherwise at your own expense to tape the show.

You must be at least eighteen years old to audition to be a contestant. However, if you work for or are related to anyone who is employed with The Griffin Group, King World, Columbia Tri-Star Television, Sony Pictures Entertainment, or any station that broadcasts Wheel of Fortune or Jeopardy!, you are ineligible to be on the show. You are also ineligible if you have appeared on any other game show within a year, or three game shows within ten years. And if you've ever appeared on any version of Wheel of Fortune before, you are also ineligible.

But, if you meet all eligibility requirements, I encourage you to try for the show! Good luck!