Note: we are republishing this story which originally made the news in December 2024.

Contestant Lidia Abbott’s bonus round puzzle with only a few letters filled in, Photo Credit: Wheel of Fortune/Youtube
Quick Thinking Seals the Win
With the 10-second timer ticking, Abbott wasted no time. She confidently answered, “Making an Appointment.” Her excitement was contagious. “No!” she shouted as host Ryan Seacrest confirmed her win. The $40,000 bonus raised her total to $68,729. The studio and Vanna White erupted in celebration.
Fans Applaud Abbott’s Puzzle Mastery
The clip of Abbott’s win quickly went viral online. Viewers praised her letter choices and calm under pressure. One fan said, “The ‘M’ and ‘A’ were absolutely crucial.” Another added, “Without ‘A,’ she might have missed it. Great job!” Many noted the puzzle’s difficulty and applauded her poise.
Ryan Seacrest’s Season Highlights
The episode also spotlighted Ryan Seacrest’s growing popularity in his first Wheel of Fortune season. Taking over from Pat Sajak, Seacrest has drawn positive attention for his warm, engaging style. The show recently enjoyed its best ratings in three years.
Still, Seacrest faced some criticism earlier in the season for buzzer and hearing mishaps. But Abbott’s win was a shining moment amid the challenges.
Your Turn: Did You Solve It?
Did you guess the puzzle before Abbott? Share your thoughts and reactions in the comments below!