Fox News Flash top entertainment headlines for April 7
- Wheel Of Fortune Tony Harrison Returns
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- Wheel Of Fortune Tony Harrison Jr
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Tony Harrison, whose episode of Wheel of Fortune recently made it to the air, was asked that very question by a Twitter user. Although he previously appeared on the show back in 2017, Harrison. Tony Harrison (Valencia). Comments on: '“WHEEL of FORTUNE” 12/1/17' (9) Sean Wooldridge said: December 2, 2017 at 12:55 am. Disappointing way to end the week.
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“Wheel of Fortune” broke with tradition and allowed a contestant to appear on the show twice due to a “production issue.”
A recent episode of the hit game show saw contestant Tony Harrison, a software project manager from Valencia, Calif. take a commanding lead and perform well above average, ultimately taking home the big win and a very hearty cash prize. However, “Wheel” host Pat Sajak revealed that Harrison may have had an advantage given that he previously appeared on the show.
“If Tony looks familiar -- this is Tony Harrison, who's been here before,” the host said while introducing the contestants. “We had a little production issue, and in the interests of fairness, we brought Tony back.”
'Wheel of Fortune' allowed a contestant to play for a second time due to a 'production issue.' (AP)
Representatives for 'Wheel of Fortune' did not immediately respond to Fox News’ request for comment.
However, Yahoo Entertainment reported that the “production issue” may stem from Tony’s last appearance in 2017 in which he made it all the way to the bonus round. While there, he chose the category “Phrase.” Unfortunately, the game gave him the category “What are you doing.” It’s possible that the minor gaffe may have been smoothed over by allowing Harrison to return for another go.
The outlet reported that the second time was the charm, with the contestant finishing the game with a massive $93,831 in prizes, including a trip to Barbados.
Harrison himself took to Twitter prior to the broadcast to briefly reflect on the journey he’s been on with “Wheel of Fortune” so far.
“From a #Wheelmobile contestant search in 2017 to an encore taping at Sony Studios in 2020, it's been quite a ride. Watch me on Wheel of Fortune, Monday, April 6th!” he told his followers.
Although new episodes continue to roll out, “Wheel Of Fortune” has actually suspended production amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
“With the increasing concern surrounding COVID-19, we have decided to temporarily suspend production on Wheel of Fortune and @Jeopardy! The health and well-being of our contestants, staff, and crew are our top priority, and we will continue to monitor the situation as it develops,” a tweet announcing the suspension of production read.
The show even followed up with a note to fans explaining why new episodes are premiering with a studio audience despite guidelines on social distancing.
“A friendly reminder that the current episodes were taped months in advance, so any interactions between the contestants, Pat and Vanna, staff and crew, or the studio audience were considered safe at that time. We hope you and your loved ones are well, and thank you for watching!”
Wheel of Fortune saw another impressive performance from a contestant on Monday night, but the player in question had a bit more experience than is usually allowed. Much like Jeopardy!, its syndicated game show sibling Wheel of Fortune only allows contestants to play in their regular games once. Jeopardy!, mind you, allows champions who go on long runs to return for its Tournament of Champions.
Wheel, meanwhile, is a one-and-done deal. Which is why Tony Harrison was a big exception on Monday night’s episode. Harrison appeared on an episode in 2017 and though it’s unclear exactly what happened, everyone was made aware that this wasn’t his first rodeo during player introductions.
“If Tony looks familiar, this is Tony Harrison, who’s been here before,” host Pat Sajak said. “We had a little production issue, and in the interest of fairness, we brought Tony back.”
Wheel Of Fortune Tony Harrison Returns
Harrison tweeted about his appearance before it aired and seemed very excited to be back.
Tony was asked by a fan why he appeared twice on Twitter, and while he didn’t have a full answer he appreciated the show was upfront with him that he would eventually get another shot.
I really don’t know the answer to that Tony, but the show was great about staying in touch and letting me know that it was just a matter of time.
— Tony Harrison (@TonySCV) April 7, 2020
The Wheel Of Fortune Show
He certainly took full advantage of that shot, dominating the show and winning more than $100,000 in prizes for the effort, including a nice $45,000 payout for winning in the prize round and a trip to Barbados. Harrison was predictably thrilled, but not everyone was happy that he was given a second shot and won so big.
I’ve never been on Wheel of Fortune once but Tony gets to be on it twice…
Wheel Of Fortune Tony Harrison Jr
— Whit (@whitl24) April 6, 2020
Wheel Of Names
If those have a tinge of jealousy to them, well, you’re an astute observer. But not as astute as Tony, who certainly made the most of his second chance on Tuesday.