Historic $1 Million Win on ‘Wheel of Fortune’
Tuesday night, Christina Derevjanik from Connecticut made history on “Wheel of Fortune”, becoming only the fifth contestant ever to claim the show’s coveted $1 million prize. And she did it with remarkable ease.
Securing the Million-Dollar Wedge
Derevjanik had already landed the $1 million wedge during regular play, putting her on track for a life-changing payday. Before the bonus round, she joked about handing in her two weeks’ notice at her marketing job if she hit the jackpot.
The Bonus Round Moment
The bonus puzzle category was “Living Things.” With the standard letters R, S, T, L, N, and E revealed, Derevjanik chose M, C, F, and A. These letters filled in just enough blanks to make the answer clear.
As host Ryan Seacrest started the countdown, Derevjanik didn’t hesitate. She confidently shouted the correct answer: “Pack of coyotes.”
Her reaction was instant — a mix of shock, joy, and excitement. She jumped, screamed, and then erupted into tears when Seacrest revealed her $1 million jackpot. Confetti rained down as she hugged Seacrest and longtime co-host Vanna White in disbelief.
Show hostess Vanna White in a ‘Wheel of Fortune’ episode, Photo Credit: Wheel of Fortune
Show hostess Vanna White in a ‘Wheel of Fortune’ episode, Photo Credit: Wheel of Fortune
Paying Off Student Loans and Planning Ahead
The win wasn’t just about fame. Derevjanik shared that she plans to pay off her student loans, a goal many Americans relate to. In a follow-up interview with Good Morning America, she revealed she’ll keep her day job at a utilities company — at least for now — but also plans to buy a new home and become debt-free.
A Record-Breaking Night
In total, Derevjanik’s winnings reached $1,035,155, making it the largest prize ever awarded on the show. It also marked the first million-dollar winner under Ryan Seacrest’s hosting.
Fans online celebrated the moment, praising her quick thinking and composure. For a show that has entertained America for decades, this night was truly historic.
A Legendary Place in History
Over the years, countless contestants have tried, but only a few have reached the $1 million milestone. With her lightning-fast solve and unshakable focus, Christina Derevjanik has cemented her place in “Wheel of Fortune” history — all in a single, unforgettable night.
