'Wheel of Fortune' Player Called the 'Best Contestant' After Winning $66,000 – Video

A "Wheel of Fortune" contestant impressed social media users—and the show's hosts—by effortlessly solving a tricky bonus puzzle and becoming a fan favorite.

Geoffrey Smith dazzled on "Wheel of Fortune," solving puzzles with lightning speed to claim $66,000 in winnings—leaving social media users in awe of his skill.

Smith's standout moment came in the bonus round's "Phrase" category during the January 13 episode. Already earning $26,000, he spun the bonus wheel and landed on a prize marked "A."

After the standard letters "R," "S," "T," "L," "N," and "E" were revealed by co-host Vanna White, the puzzle displayed, " _ _ S T / _ L _ R T / I T / _ _ T."

Host Ryan Seacrest encouraged Smith to stay calm, "Take a good look, it's a phrase. You got ten seconds." However, Smith confidently solved the puzzle within seconds, declaring, "Just Blurt It Out." His correct response earned him an additional prize.

Seacrest revealed, "Geoffrey, you're floating on a sea of green with $40,000!" White approached Smith, saying, "That was awesome!" and hugged him. Seacrest continued, "That's a grand total of there... of $66,000. Geoffrey, congratulations."

He then joked to Smith, "You were looking down at me like 'I don't need you to talk anymore, Ryan, I just want to blurt it out.'"

Viewers quickly praised Smith for his exceptional performance and charisma. One fan wrote, "Way to go, Geoffrey! It was a tough one, but you got it right anyways [sic]!" Another raved, "He was really good!! Best contestant we've seen in a long time! And such a gentleman too!"

The moment with White also drew attention. "Wait, Vanna never comes closer to congratulate the contestant on a $40K win, she usually stays at the letter/puzzle board and just claps," a fan observed. Someone else expressed a similar sentiment, "Vanna doesnt usually come out with the winner and Ryan unless someone wins 100 k [sic]."

Another viewer expressed delight in Smith's performance, "He was so fun to watch! Loved his story and getting to finally make his dream come true."

Others expressed hope for his return in future episodes. "I really enjoyed this show and Mr Geoffrey! He has to come back for an all-star contestant! He needs an MVP award or Most valuable solver award [sic]!" a viewer said.

Earlier in the episode, Smith recounted his younger days watching "Wheel of Fortune." Smith shared, "At the time, we couldn't afford a color TV, So I had to watch it on the neighbor's black and white TV. But then today, you came in just to say 'Hi' to us, and I'm like, 'Oh, my God, there's Vanna White in living color!'"

Reflecting on his experience, Smith shared his gratitude on Facebook, describing his time on the show as "amazing." He added, "Much appreciation to the fellow contestants, the producers, crew and all Sony Pictures Entertainment. Had so much fun and still in awe. Thanks for all the congratulations and compliments."

Smith's episode aired during a transitional period for the beloved game show. After four decades as host, Pat Sajak retired, with his final episode airing on June 7, 2024, coinciding with the season 41 finale.

Reflecting on his tenure, Sajak said in a Good Morning America interview, "Somewhere along the line, we became more than a popular show. We became part of the popular culture. And more importantly, we became part of people's lives."

Sajak explained that stepping away felt natural, "I've always said to you, you've heard me say this dozens of times. I'd rather leave a couple years too early than a couple of years too late."

He also expressed gratitude for the show’s 40 years of success and shared his excitement about starting a new chapter after his retirement.

Ryan Seacrest officially stepped into the hosting role, bringing a fresh energy to the show while honoring its legacy. Meanwhile, Vanna White, who has been with "Wheel of Fortune" for over 40 years, continues to delight fans.

In a September 2024 interview with Parade, White addressed why she hasn't retired yet, "Because I enjoy it. I love coming to work. I love watching people win. I love changing people's lives."

She also shared that she values the positive impact the show has on viewers. She noted that the show provides a refreshing, family-friendly escape from dramatic TV content.