A recent episode of Wheel of Fortune has fans fuming after new host Ryan Seacrest delivered what many are calling an unfair ruling that cost a contestant $1,000.
Arzice Salonga, a law student and single mother from Medina, Ohio, was the first to buzz in on a toss-up puzzle in the “Event” category. The nearly solved puzzle read: A F _ I _ _ N / _ A _ A _ _. Salonga confidently answered, “African Safari,” but was ruled incorrect due to her pronunciation of “safari.” Judges determined that her pronunciation—”sa-FAIR-ee”—was unacceptable. The opportunity then passed to Brian Nelson, a contestant from Longview, Texas, who pronounced the word “safari” correctly and won the round.
Seacrest, who took over hosting duties from longtime host Pat Sajak in September, backed the judges’ decision. “Yes, safari is the way you have to say that,” he stated on-air, adding that he double-checked with the show’s officials. Salonga, visibly stunned, shook her head as the moment unfolded.
Fans React: ‘She Was Robbed’
The ruling ignited a social media firestorm.
“She was robbed, IMO,” a Reddit user declared.
Another viewer on X (formerly Twitter) remarked, “Come on, Wheel of Fortune judges. Everyone knew what she meant. It’s not a spelling bee.”
Some fans argued that Wheel of Fortune has previously been lenient with slight pronunciation differences, pointing to past instances where contestants with regional accents were not penalized. “They’ve accepted worse. ‘Sa-fair-ee’ should’ve counted,” one viewer posted.
Others, however, supported the judges’ decision. “Never heard someone say ‘safari’ that way,” a user wrote. Another added, “This is a word game. You have to get it right.”
Seacrest’s Growing List of Controversies
This isn’t the first time Seacrest has made headlines since taking over the beloved game show. Last month, he was tackled to the ground in a bizarre on-set moment. A Pittsburgh contestant named Daniel won a high-stakes bonus round and became so overwhelmed with excitement that he accidentally knocked Seacrest over while celebrating. “Daniel, easy on our host!” the announcer quipped as the contestant collected his $40,000 prize.
Seacrest, brushing off the incident, assured viewers, “I’m good, I’m good.”
Pat Sajak’s Absence Felt
For many longtime viewers, these incidents underscore the absence of Pat Sajak, who hosted Wheel of Fortune for over four decades before retiring last year. “Pat would’ve handled this better,” one fan wrote online. Another commented, “Sajak had class. Seacrest is all about the drama.”
Final Thoughts
As Wheel of Fortune continues under new leadership, moments like these are dividing audiences. Some see them as an unfortunate departure from the show’s traditional format, while others appreciate the added drama. One thing is certain—Seacrest is making his mark, whether fans like it or not.
What do you think? Was Salonga unfairly penalized, or was the ruling justified? Let us know in the comments.
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Terrible decision o common sense
She is from Ohio, he is from Texas. His answer stands.
She said it wrong. It sounded like Safairy. Her fault not Ryan’s.
The judges are right it is Safari NOT Safairii
WE DON’T CARE !!! It’s just a corrupt TV show…
My opinion is the judges were absolutely correct! I also feel Ryan Seacrest has taken a somewhat boring Wheel and has added new life in the game. I’m appreciative of his friendliness to the guests playing every day!