Vanna White Says a "Wheel of Fortune" Contestant Used Prize Money to Adopt a Child
Wheel of Fortune is celebrating its 35th anniversary and Vanna White is sharing the life-changing ways in which contestants have spent their winnings throughout the years.
"We had one woman [who told us] that they adopted a child," White told People. "And of course they'd send the pictures [with] 'Here's the child I adopted.'"
Host Pat Sajak and White have awarded up to $250 million in cash and prizes on the classic ABC gameshow since the early '80s. "It's very heartwarming to see those letters come in, how it has affected so many people," White said.
The darling cohost said that throughout the years there have been many contestants who used the money to get back on their feet after a difficult financial situation.
"People pay off their student loans, they buy their first homes, they go on honeymoons, they buy cars that they've never had. So it changes a lot of people's lives," she said.
"One guy did win a brand new car, and he turned to Pat [Sajak] and he said 'I don't have to take the bus anymore,'" White added. "So that was something."
After a string of good luck on the gameshow, White shared that many contestants have also chosen to pay it forward. "We've had other people who have taken the money and have started charities, or have helped organizations that help other people, not just themselves."
Wheel of Fortune kicks off three weeks of Disney-themed episodes from Walt Disney World Resort's Epcot Theme Park as part of its 35th anniversary celebration on Monday.
WATCH: This Foundation Is Making It Possible for War Veterans to Adopt Service Dogs for Free
You Might Also Like
