Wheel of Fortune, created by Merv Griffin, is an iconic American game show that has aired since January 6, 1975, with its nightly syndicated version premiering on September 19, 1983. Contestants solve hangman-style word puzzles by spinning a giant carnival wheel to win cash and prizes, a format that has made it the longest-running syndicated game show in the US, with over 8,000 episodes taped. The show is currently hosted by Ryan Seacrest and Vanna White (with announcer Jim Thornton) since September 2024, following the retirement of legendary host Pat Sajak, who in 2018 became the longest-running host of any game show. With 60 international adaptations and spin-offs like Wheel 2000 and Celebrity Wheel of Fortune, the program remains a global television phenomenon.