A dramatic episode of Wheel of Fortune ended in heartbreak for one contestant, whose lifelong dream slipped away in the final moments—just after a round of spirited trash talk with her fellow players.
Airing on May 14, the episode was part of the show’s “Bragging Rights Week,” which brings together friends, family, and coworkers for some lighthearted competition. This time, the spotlight was on proud members of the U.S. military community, adding an extra layer of honor and intensity to the game.
Courtney White, a Marine Corps veteran from San Diego, went head-to-head with Tess Lee of Spring Valley and active-duty Navy Chief Joe Vargas from El Cajon, California. For White, this wasn’t just a game—it was the culmination of a dream that began back in seventh grade. She had long imagined herself on the Wheel of Fortune stage and came fully prepared, even bringing a carefully chosen set of letters she planned to use in the Bonus Round.
The episode maintained a lighthearted yet competitive tone throughout. “I’m just ready to prove I’m taking home the Bragging Rights,” Vargas declared with confidence early on. Host Ryan Seacrest, clearly amused, responded with a smirk, “Yeah, I figured you’d say that.”
The playful energy shifted when Lee landed on the dreaded Bankrupt wedge, wiping out the team’s shot at the coveted \$1 million prize. “Thanks a lot, Tess!” Vargas joked, though he later assured there were no hard feelings. Speaking with Maggie Sajak after the show, Vargas expressed his admiration for White, saying, “It’s been her dream forever — just happy to be a part of it.”
White went on to win the main game with \$15,200, edging out Lee’s \$10,050 and Vargas’ \$8,000. Despite the setback, Lee still walked away with a trip to Mexico.
When the Bonus Round arrived, White chose the “Place” category and confidently delivered the letters she had prepared for years: C, D, H, and A. The board lit up to reveal: “A-_AC_ED CA_E.”
White took her best shots with guesses like “cave,” “faced,” and “map,” but the elusive answer — “Jam-Packed Cafe” — slipped through her fingers. As the buzzer sounded, she missed out on a \$40,000 prize, marking the show’s 13th consecutive Bonus Round loss.
Still, host Ryan Seacrest praised her determination and journey, from her days at Okeeheelee Middle School in Florida to competing on national television. “Told you I’d get here,” White said proudly before her final spin.
After the show, Vargas couldn’t resist a playful jab, claiming he had guessed the right answer. “Bragger!” Seacrest quipped with a grin.
Behind the scenes, however, the trio shared plenty of laughs. According to Maggie Sajak, their off-camera camaraderie showed a much more supportive dynamic than their on-air teasing let on.
