10 Game Show Moments That Were Totally Unexpected
These 10 game show moments surprised viewers and contestants alike with real, unscripted reactions.
- Sophia Zapanta
- 4 min read
Game shows usually follow a set format with few surprises, but sometimes, something completely unexpected happens that throws everyone off. These real moments were caught on camera and changed how people remember the shows.
1. The Wheel of Fortune contestant who solved the puzzle with one letter
Jesse James on Wikimedia Commons
In 2014, a contestant named Emil shocked viewers by solving the puzzle “New Baby Buggy” with only the letter “N” on the board. He said he used common phrase patterns to make a guess. Even host Pat Sajak looked stunned by how fast he got it. The clip spread quickly online because it seemed almost impossible.
2. The Price Is Right perfect showcase bid
Carmcarp1 on Wikimedia Commons
In 2008, a contestant named Terry guessed the exact value of his showcase: $23,743. This was the first time in the show’s modern history that someone hit the price perfectly. Host Drew Carey paused the show because producers thought it might be suspicious. They later confirmed it was likely a very lucky guess.
3. The Jeopardy! player who finished with negative $7,400
Rosemaryetoufee on Wikimedia Commons
In 2015, a contestant named Stephanie ended the show with the lowest score on Jeopardy! history. She missed nearly every question she attempted. Because of the rules, she could not return for Final Jeopardy. Many viewers felt bad for her, but the moment stood out because of how rare it was.
4. The Millionaire player who used his lifeline to announce his win
Vigor44 on Wikimedia Commons
In 1999, contestant John Carpenter reached the million-dollar question without using a lifeline. For his final lifeline, he called his dad just to say he didn’t need help because he knew the answer. Host Regis Philbin smiled as the crowd realized what was happening. Carpenter answered correctly and became the first U.S. winner.
5. The Family Feud answer that made the host pause
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In 2012, when asked, “Name something you pass around,” one contestant answered, “a joint.” Steve Harvey stopped talking and looked around as the audience laughed. The answer actually earned points on the board. It became one of the most shared Family Feud clips online.
6. The Deal or No Deal contestant who turned down a high offer
Kamal Sellehuddin on Wikimedia Commons
In 2008, one contestant had the chance to take home $144,000. He believed his briefcase had the million and kept playing. In the end, his case had only $400. Viewers were frustrated, but the moment showed how emotional and risky the game can be.
7. The Catch 21 contestant who said the answer too early
Journalist Seaman Ryan Clement on Wikimedia Commons
During a 2009 episode, a player accidentally shouted the right answer before the host finished reading the question. The other contestants looked confused, unsure if they should respond. The host paused and had to explain the rules again. Although it was awkward, the round continued without a rule break.
8. The Wheel of Fortune player who fainted
WheelBTS on Wikimedia Commons
In a 2009 episode, a contestant collapsed after spinning the wheel. She had been excited and seemed fine until she suddenly dropped. Medical staff checked on her, and the show went to a break. She later returned and finished the round.
9. The Millionaire contestant who walked off the stage
Warner Bros on Wikimedia Commons
In 2006, a player froze during a question worth $250,000. He hesitated, changed his mind several times, and eventually said he couldn’t continue. The host allowed him to walk away with his guaranteed amount. The moment was quiet but heavy, showing how pressure can affect decisions.
10. The kid on Child Genius who answered back
Mohamed Ashik Recieving POGO Amazing Kids Genius Award 2011
On Child Genius in 2015, a young contestant named Vanya Shivashankar responded sharply when the host asked a question she found odd. She calmly told him it wasn’t something an 11-year-old would usually be asked. The audience and judges laughed in surprise. Her confidence stood out in a tense competition.