North Carolina Teacher Makes ‘Wheel of Fortune’ History with $100,000 Win

A sixth-grade language arts teacher from Taylorsville, North Carolina, just made game show history. Cory Earp became the first $100,000 winner of Wheel of Fortune’s 43rd season, dazzling viewers with his quick wit and calm composure during the September 19 episode.

Known at school for his trademark tropical shirts, Earp swapped the classroom for the spotlight and competed against two fellow educators — Alesha Davis from Chicago and BB Fisher from Arizona. After early momentum and a few setbacks, he roared back by sweeping the Triple Toss-Ups and solving the final puzzle “Gorgeous Gown and Golden Crown,” securing his spot in the Bonus Round.

There, Earp chose the category “What Are You Wearing?” and instantly solved “Fancy Blazer” before the timer barely started. Host Ryan Seacrest revealed the $100,000 prize card, sending the studio into celebration.

With total winnings of $126,450, Earp called the moment “unreal.” Fans flooded social media with praise, calling his lightning-fast solve one of the season’s most thrilling victories and a proud moment for teachers everywhere.