‘Wheel of Fortune’ Fans Furious After Another Tough Bonus Puzzle Halts Contestant’s Big Win

Wheel of Fortune viewers are reaching their breaking point as another contestant missed out on a major payday — sparking fresh outrage over increasingly difficult bonus round puzzles.

On Monday night, contestant Cherie Noisette dominated the game with over $21,000 already secured and a Wild Card in hand. But when she reached the final puzzle, a possible $40,000 prize slipped away, leaving many fans calling the clue “unfair.”

Puzzle: _ ND _ _ A _ARD
Answer: Kind of Awkward
Despite choosing solid letters, the clock ran out as Noisette guessed, “Something awkward.” Host Ryan Seacrest responded with a sympathetic laugh while Vanna White revealed the correct phrase. Noisette handled the loss gracefully, saying: “That’s alright.”

Fans, however, felt far from calm.

Social Media Backlash
Viewers took to X and YouTube, venting about what they call a streak of “impossible” bonus puzzles:

“Another tough puzzle tonight.”
“Not even surprised anymore.”
Many believe the bonus round has gotten harsher since Ryan Seacrest took over from Pat Sajak — raising speculation that producers are intentionally upping difficulty.

A Strong Game, A Bitter Ending
Noisette walked away with $21,350, while fans walked away with more frustration. As the bonus puzzles keep stumping players, viewers are demanding answers — and easier phrases.

Wheel watchers are asking: Is this bad luck… or a new era of tougher play?