Charlene Rubush, Wheel of Fortune contestant, was at the top of their game on Tuesday, December 21st when she reached the Bonus Round of Wheel of Fortune with $16,500 in her pocket. Charlene Rubush was then denied a new Audi Q3 due to a wrong, but delayed, answer to the final puzzle.
Rubush incorrectly guesses Rubush’s answer at first, but then correctly solves it. However, there is a long pause in between, just as the buzzer rings. The puzzle answer was “Choosing a correct word” to create maximum confusion.
This long pause cost her everything.
Pat Sajak (the show’s host) broke the bad news. He explained, “You know, this is tough because you used all the right words including the word “word”, but it has to be more or less continuous.”
He said, “We’ll allow a little pause, but not four to five seconds. I’m sorry. We can’t give the prize to you because of your efforts in obtaining it.
He then opened the prize and declared, “And it’s the Audi.”
Rubush was able to drive home, despite not having a car of her own, and she seemed happy as she applauded at end. But viewers weren’t so happy with the decision and took to Twitter last night to voice their disapproval.
“Come on @WheelofFortune, the woman literally chose to use the right word,” Jeopardy! Alex Jacobs was the contestant. “Give her the car.”
Another fan mentioned the holiday season as an excuse for extra giving and added, “It is Christmas. Give her the Audi. #WheelofFortune”
One third of viewers suggested that they would discontinue watching the show after the decision. “Wheel of Fortune you have just lost a viewer. They commented, “I am choosing the right words” to not watch this show again. “I’m done! That lady is my friend. She is deserving of that Audi! This rule is the dumbest thing you’ve ever heard! It was there before the clock ran out!
