‘Wheel of Fortune’ Contestant Shocked by In-Game Proposal
Rhea Mathew, a former contestant on “Wheel of Fortune,” recently stepped onto the show’s set under the impression that she was returning to participate in the celebration of the show’s 50th anniversary.
However, her boyfriend Robin had something entirely different in mind.
As Rhea took her place at the wheel, she buzzed in to answer a toss-up puzzle while competing against two other contestants. This moment was shared in a video on the official “Wheel of Fortune” YouTube page on Jan 9.
During her time on the show in October 2023, Rhea boldly responded with, “Will you marry me?”
As the answer lit up the screen, announcer Jim Thornton acknowledged her with, “Nicely done.”
At that moment, Robin made his way onto the stage. As Rhea began to connect the dots, her jaw dropped in surprise. She rushed over to her boyfriend, who then knelt down on one knee.
“Will you marry me?” Robin asked again while presenting her with a ring.
Rhea enthusiastically nodded yes, and the couple shared a sweet kiss.
In the introduction of the video, the show’s new host, Ryan Seacrest, along with Vanna White, mentioned that the proposal had taken place earlier that week after Robin reached out to the show for assistance.
“With Jim, we concocted a bit of a scheme,” White explained.
Maggie Sajak, the show’s social correspondent and daughter of longtime host Pat Sajak, provided more behind-the-scenes insights on Instagram, revealing how they orchestrated the surprise.
In a clip, Sajak interviewed Rhea under the pretense of her coming back for a “toss-up redemption round.”
“Were you able to bring any family or friends with you today?” Sajak inquired.
“Yes, I actually brought someone very special with me today—my boyfriend, Robin. He’s one of my biggest supporters. I’m so excited to share this moment with him,” she replied.
While filming the proposal off-camera, Sajak captured Rhea’s reaction as she saw Robin. She froze, and a contestant beside her reached for her buzzer while Rhea covered her mouth in disbelief.
Following the proposal, Sajak and Rhea had another interview.
Sajak once again asked Rhea if she had brought anyone special to the “Wheel” set.
“I actually brought my fiancé, Robin,” Rhea stated.
“This has been the most elaborate proposal I could ever have imagined—I am still in shock,” she added.
