‘Wheel of Fortune’ Pat Sajak’s Most Cringe-Worthy Moments
For almost 40 years, Pat Sajak has been the king of the wheel, turning letters and changing lives (well, at least their bank accounts) on Wheel of Fortune. But even the smoothest operators have a wobble now and then. Here are some of Pat Sajak’s most epic, cringe-worthy moments that prove even game show legends aren’t immune to a little on-air awkwardness.
Shirtless Spectacle
Credit: Youtube
During a WWE-themed episode, a wrestler contestant lost the game. To add insult to injury (or maybe just for some laughs?), Pat jokingly told him to take his shirt off for an eBay auction. While some viewers appreciated the surprise eye candy, others questioned the show’s sudden turn toward thirst traps.
Beard There Done That
Credit: Instagram
A contestant with a magnificent Santa Claus beard mentioned his grandkids loved pulling on it. Seemingly unable to resist, Pat reached out and gave it a yank. Regret washed over him instantly, and viewers were left divided between “awkward” and “Santa shouldn’t be manhandled!”
That Time He Mocked a Contestant’s Lisp
Credit: Reddit
One contestant introduced themselves with a lisp, and Pat’s response (“I thee” instead of “I see”) landed with a thud. Yikes! Twitter exploded, and Pat had to issue a quick apology.
“Kitchen Oven” Catastrophe
Credit: X
A contestant dared to question the legitimacy of the “kitchen oven” as a puzzle answer. Let’s just say Pat wasn’t having it. His “Ungrateful players!” outburst became a meme for hosts who’ve reached their limit.
The Price is Wrong…to Interrupt
Credit: Reddit
A contestant eager to play accidentally cut off Pat during a sponsor plug. Big mistake! Pat schooled them on the importance of commercial breaks with a sassy “Never interrupt me!” We all learned a valuable lesson that day (and maybe a new rule about sponsor etiquette).
The “Riding a Brown Horse” Debacle
Credit: Youtube
A contestant’s nonsensical answer (“riding a brown horse” with barely any clues revealed) left Pat speechless. He literally walked off the set for a moment before returning to question his own sanity. This became a legendary Wheel of Fortune moment, a testament to the unexpected twists live TV can take.
Fencing Puns and Death Stares
Credit: Reddit
A contestant with a fencing hobby joked about “stabbing his friends.” Pat, ever the master of puns, replied with a “stay on guard” fencing joke. But when the contestant returned the punny favor, Pat delivered a look that could curdle milk. It was a hilarious exchange of wit (and maybe a hint of playful hostility?).
The Great “Butter” Caper
Credit: X
A contestant confidently solved a puzzle but with a tiny hitch. They added an extra “S” to “nut,” making it “nuts.” Despite fans going ape (pun intended), Pat accepted the answer, leaving viewers to wonder if it was a slip-up or a controversial new plural form.
An Awkward Celebration
Credit: Reddit
A contestant, a drama teacher, and a part-time wrestler no less aced every single puzzle. To celebrate, Pat…put him into a headlock. The internet went wild, with some calling it a cringe assault and others praising the playful moment. The contestant himself assured fans it was all in good fun.
Garden Gnome Pat
Credit: Facebook
Vanna White casually mentioned her peaceful garden as a place to relax. In a move that could rival one of Michael Scott’s social blunders, Pat joked that he “hides” there sometimes at 3 a.m., picking pears. Vanna’s forced laughter and audience silence spoke volumes about the awkwardness.