Melissa “Missy” Porter, Darrin “Poppa” Gallagher, and Tim Stebenne—who have worked together for more than 20 years—stepped under the bright studio lights with the kind of easy comfort only old friends share. From the moment the game began, their banter made it clear that this episode would be different.
Porter teased that she only cooks meatballs when Wheel of Fortune is on the television. Gallagher leaned into his years of seniority at the firehouse. And Stebenne jokingly cast himself as a “David” going up against two departmental “Goliaths,” suggesting that taking them on would be a victory in itself.
Fans Embrace the Shake-Up
It didn’t take long for viewers to notice that something special was happening. Social media lit up with reactions almost as soon as the episode aired.
“This is so much better than playing in teams,” one Instagram user commented.
Another wrote, “I’m confused but obsessed with this dynamic.”
Reddit threads filled with praise for the refreshing change of pace, noting that the energy between the contestants added a humorous, human element to the familiar structure of the show.
It was an experiment—and by all appearances, a successful one. Fans appreciated seeing real friendships tested by a spinning wheel and a board of disappearing letters.
Classic Twists Return for the Big Night
While the players were new, the producers made sure to bring back some fan-favorite elements that haven’t appeared as often in recent seasons.
The Jackpot round returned, beginning at zero and rising by $500 with each spin. Whoever solved the puzzle would walk away with the full accumulated amount—as long as they dodged the ever-present threat of “Bankrupt.”
The vulnerable $1 Million wedge also had its moment. Host Ryan Seacrest reminded viewers that if no one hit Bankrupt during the round, the coveted prize would remain in play for the Bonus Round. The possibility added a layer of tension that had fans leaning forward in their seats.
