Easton Man Wins Big on ‘Wheel of Fortune,’ Celebrates with $64,000 Prize

EASTON, Pa. — Ricky Brown, a musician and lifelong fan of “Wheel of Fortune,” became an overnight sensation after winning $64,000 and a cruise during Wednesday’s episode of the popular game show. The Easton resident, known for his infectious enthusiasm and quick puzzle-solving skills, triumphed over two competitors in a thrilling episode that aired January 15.

Brown, who grew up watching the show with his grandmother in Jamaica, credited his family and friends for encouraging him to audition. “I was a nerd in high school, and I kind of still am,” Brown said. “My grandma and I would always guess the puzzles together, and I’d usually get them right.”

During the episode, Brown faced off against Karen Morgan of Clinton, Maryland, and Lisa McDaniel of Norman, Oklahoma. He quickly established himself as a strong contender, solving the Round 1 puzzle for $2,950. Despite a minor stumble in the Mystery Round, Brown bounced back in the Express Round, securing a cruise as part of his winnings.

Brown’s momentum continued in the Triple Toss Up round, where he solved two of three puzzles, including the humorous “Nudist Colony.” He sealed his victory by solving the final Speed Up puzzle, earning a total of $24,000 and advancing to the Bonus Round.

In the Bonus Round, Brown chose the challenging “Phrase” category and was given the additional letters B, F, M, and A. With the puzzle reading “AS / _ _ _ / _ _ S _,” Brown confidently shouted, “As you wish!” within seconds of the timer starting. His correct answer earned him an additional $40,000, bringing his total winnings to $64,000 and a cruise.

Host Ryan Seacrest was visibly impressed, joking, “Hold on, you bent the card!” as Brown celebrated with an exuberant hug. Viewers took to social media to praise Brown’s performance, with one fan commenting, “Ricky rocks. Way to go Ricky. Best Wheel contestant ever!!!”

Brown’s journey to the show was a dream come true. After submitting a quick audition video, he was invited to a Zoom call with producers, who were drawn to his vibrant personality. “I’m always cracking jokes, I’m always laughing, so it was natural for me,” Brown said. Despite initial setbacks with travel costs, Brown eventually made it to Culver City, California, for the taping in November.

Reflecting on the experience, Brown described it as “an out-of-body experience.” He also shared a special moment with his wife, Heather, who was in the audience. “I just remember saying to her, ‘Are you proud of me?’ And she said, ‘Yeah,’ and I was crying,” Brown recalled.

Brown’s community in Easton celebrated his victory with a watch party at Rivals Sports Bar and Restaurant. “I’m very thankful,” Brown said. “It seriously is an out-of-body experience.”