
“Wheel of Fortune” history was made when Connecticut contestant Christina Derevjanik became only the fifth player ever to win the show’s $1 million grand prize — and she did it with stunning ease.
Derevjanik had already secured the elusive $1 million wedge, setting the stage for a life-changing moment. Her bonus round category was “Living Things.” Choosing the letters M, C, F, and A, she confidently solved the puzzle — “Pack of coyotes” — before the timer even began.
As host Ryan Seacrest revealed her prize, Derevjanik burst into tears of disbelief while confetti rained down. “I can pay off my student loans!” she exclaimed, overwhelmed with emotion.
Her total winnings reached $1,035,155, marking the largest prize in show history and the first million-dollar win under Seacrest’s hosting.
Speaking to Good Morning America, Derevjanik said she plans to stay at her marketing job “for now,” but hopes to buy a home and become debt-free.
“It still feels unreal,” she said.
Fans flooded social media with congratulations, calling her quick thinking and composure “legendary” — a true dream come true on America’s favorite game show.