A standout moment lit up Wheel of Fortune on Tuesday night when Christina Derevjanik of Connecticut achieved one of the program’s rarest feats—a $1 million win. Reaching seven figures has happened only a handful of times across decades on the air, and Derevjanik’s performance combined focus, speed, and a bit of well-timed luck to secure her place among that elite group.
Her path to the milestone began earlier in the game when she captured the coveted Million Dollar Wedge and successfully protected it through the rounds. Heading into the bonus puzzle, she laughed about the idea that a big win might change her plans at her marketing job. Then came the decisive moment. With the category set to “Living Things,” the standard letters appeared, and she added her own choices—enough to bring the solution into sharp focus.
As the clock started, Derevjanik solved the puzzle almost instantly with “Pack of coyotes.” The studio erupted as host Ryan Seacrest revealed the prize. Overcome with emotion, she celebrated onstage alongside Vanna White, soaking in confetti, applause, and the reality of a life-changing result. She later shared that the winnings would help her clear student loans, buy a home, and wipe out remaining debt.
By the end of the night, her total reached $1,035,155—marking the largest single prize ever awarded on the show and the first million-dollar victory during Seacrest’s tenure as host. Viewers praised her calm under pressure and quick deduction, and the moment quickly joined the show’s most memorable highlights. For fans of the long-running game, it was a reminder that preparation, timing, and confidence can still deliver unforgettable television.