49 years ago today, the very first Wheel of Fortune
Forty-nine years ago today marks a pivotal moment in television history—the debut of “Wheel of Fortune” on NBC daytime. Premiering on January 6, 1975, with Chuck Woolery as the host and Susan Stafford as the letter-turner, this game show would go on to become one of the most iconic and enduring fixtures in American entertainment.
The very first episode of “Wheel of Fortune” set the stage for a format that millions would come to love, combining word puzzles, strategic gameplay, and the excitement of chance with its signature spinning wheel.
“Wheel of Fortune” was created by Merv Griffin, a man already known for his midas touch in game show creation, with “Jeopardy!” also to his credit. Griffin’s idea was simple yet innovative: combine the hangman-style word game with a roulette-style wheel that contestants would spin to determine their cash or prize for correctly guessing a letter. This concept was not only entertaining but also allowed for an engaging viewer experience, as audiences at home could solve the puzzles alongside the contestants.
The original format of “Wheel of Fortune” had contestants competing to solve word puzzles, similar to today’s game, but with several key differences that evolved over time. In these early episodes, the game was played with a vertically mounted wheel, which Chuck Woolery would spin at the start of each round. Susan Stafford, as the show’s original letter-turner, played a crucial role in the gameplay, revealing letters on the puzzle board as contestants correctly guessed them. This dynamic duo of Woolery and Stafford brought charisma and warmth to the show, setting a high standard for their successors.
One of the most distinctive features of the initial episodes was the shopping element. Contestants would use their earned winnings to “shop” for prizes showcased in a studio setting, a segment that would later be phased out in favor of adding more puzzles and speeding up the game. This shopping segment added a unique charm to the early shows, reflecting the era’s television entertainment values.
The debut episode of “Wheel of Fortune” captivated viewers with its novel gameplay and the charismatic presence of its hosts. Despite the simplicity of its format, the show struck a chord with the American public, laying the groundwork for what would become a staple of daytime and later, nighttime television. The original set, with its manually operated puzzle board and clunky wheel, may seem quaint by today’s standards, but it was the beginning of a cultural phenomenon.
Over the years, “Wheel of Fortune” has undergone numerous changes, including the introduction of Vanna White as the letter-turner in 1982, technological advancements in the puzzle board, and the transition of hosting duties to Pat Sajak. However, the essence of the game—its blend of knowledge, luck, and strategy—has remained constant, endearing it to generations of viewers.
Reflecting on the first-ever “Wheel of Fortune” show provides insight into the humble beginnings of a television legend. From Chuck Woolery and Susan Stafford’s initial presentation to the evolution of the game’s format and technology, “Wheel of Fortune” exemplifies the enduring appeal of game shows. Forty-nine years ago, NBC daytime introduced a show that would become a beloved part of American entertainment history, proving that sometimes, a simple spin can change the world of television forever.
