Post by MarioGS on Jul 15, 2012 14:24:55 GMT -5
Here are all of the questions on the "Ask/Interact With Pat" section of Pat's website that survive through archives.
Hey, Mr. Sajak, big fan. I was just wondering when and if you should retire from Wheel are you or Vanna going to write a book about your wheel experiences? --Michael, Kansas City
Pat: Maybe a pamphlet.
On some shows, when you stand next to the contestants, you look much taller than they. How tall are you? (If you don't mind my being nosy...) --Jo from Indiana
Pat: That's always been a strange issue. We used to put our shorter contestants on boxes so they'd have leverage, and they towered over me when I stood next to them, so everyone assumed I was about 5'4" (not that there's anything wrong with that). Now our players are on adjustable risers so they can all be about equally sized, but my height goes up and down as I move from one to another. Anyway, I'm 5'10", which is pretty average, I guess, but the illusion persists that I'm several inches shorter (not that there's anything wrong with that).
Hi Pat. I recently noticed a large increase of charities selling celebrity swimsuit calendars to raise money for the needy. Will my Pat Sajak 2011 Swimsuit Calendar dream come true? --Dave, Campbell, CA
Pat: My thong is being restrung.
What's your favorite wedge? --Jacob, Houston, TX
Pat: That's an awfully personal question, but I'll answer it. It's the Mystery Wedge. Even though it could earn a player $10,000, nearly everyone has a look of terror when they land on it.
I was born in Murray, Ky. in 1950, I was told at one time you attended Murray State University and worked some at radio station WNBS in Murray. Is that correct? Thank You. --Robert, Panama City Beach, FL
Pat: Part of it is. I did work at the station in 1972, but I didn't go to school there. I'm sure all that information is engraved on the statue of me in the town square!
I love your 'mildly amusing' comments at the end. Do Wheel contestants have to spin the wheel fast enough so that the flippers go past enough rungs? If not, why don't they spin it soft when they're near the $5,000 space? --Aaron, Russellville, KY
Pat: I've made a career out of being mildly amusing. The wheel is actually pretty heavy, so all we ask is that players spin with consistency. If they ever appear to be "aiming" for a space (or if the wheel slips from their grasp), I'll stop the wheel and ask them to spin again. If that happens--and it does from time to time--we often edit it from the show to save time.
Are you friends with game show hosts other than Alex Trebek? --Eugene, Denver
Pat: I met Bob Barker in a mosh pit once.
Can the Wheel be spun in the other direction? --Gene, Camanche, IA
Pat: Only in Australia.
Pat, since this season on "Wheel of Fortune" there's cute little cartoons of you and Vanna at the beginning of the show, do you think there will ever be and Pat and Vanna plush dolls? Also, do you think the cartoon versions of you and Vanna would make a great animated television show and / or movie for families (with no bad language, like South Park)? --Sean, Lake St. Louis, MO
Pat: A doll and an animated character? I'm not sure. I have enough trouble keeping up with real-life Pat.
Will the price of a vowel ever increase? Using the Consumer Price Index, $250 in 1983 (the year Wheel debuted in syndication of course) is equal to $538 now. And the lowest dollar amount on the Wheel is $300, so players can now easily afford the $250 fee (and don't have to devote much strategizing to their decision). So: is there the chance that we will see vowel prices hiked to $500 or so? --Ron, New York
Pat: We have no plans to raise the cost of a vowel, but if we do, we'll be sure to tell the players it was your idea!
When is Alex Trebek going to be a contestant on Wheel? You have been on Jeopardy many times in the past and you played very well. --Jon from PA
Pat: As soon as he completes his alphabet-memorization course.
I thought you were kidding about this site, with Vanna and here you are! Keep up the great work, we love you and Vanna. Always fun to stop in at the Wheel. --Ger, BC Canada
Pat: Thanks. Stop by any time.
I see on your website you are a founder of GBL, yet I do not see a logo or mention of the newest team, Na Koa Ikaika Maui baseball... Maui Macaroons is a proud supporter of the new Maui team and with a name like this, you can imagine advertising by the word can get quite costly ;-) Can you please give a "shout-out" to the Maui team; with a great first year (thanks in part to the never-ending supply of amazing coconut cookies provided for each game!) --Lori, Maui, HI
Pat: You are absolutely right, and it's all my fault. It will take a few days, but the GBL logos will be updated in the "Projects" section of this site. I'm proud of the success of the Golden Baseball League and of Na Koa Ikaika Maui and the team's first-season performance. I hope to get to a game next season.
Often players call out a letter that has already been called. Is there a monitor of some sort where called letters are displayed? I can't wait for the Wheel of Fortune game to come out for Wii. I certainly hope your and Vanna's personalities shine through in the game. Wouldn't be the same without your clever comments and genuine sentiments. --Krista, Baltimore, MD
Pat: Yep, there's a used letter board, and letters disappear after they're called. But there's a lot to think about up there. Trust me, the game is much, much easier at home. As for wii, it'll be out very soon, and it looks terrific.
Hi Pat, Vanna may not have time to visit your site, but I did. --Evan from CA
Pat: Obviously, you're a better friend than she is.
Hey Pat, If you were a fighter pilot, what would your call sign be? --Dash, Los Angeles
Pat: Probably "Yellow!"
I was wondering whether the Wheel of Fortune has been in Texas. --Nick, Corpus Christi, TX
Pat: We've taped in Dallas a few times as well as in Houston and San Antonio, and we've always had a great time. We're not coming to Texas this season, but I hope it won't be too long till we're back.
Hi Pat, I don't have a question. I just wanted to tell you my wife Caroline and I enjoy "Wheel of Fortune" and think you are one of the sharpest and funniest hosts on television. --Jim, Williamsville, NY Jim Easton
Pat: I'm always gratified to hear from people with exquisite taste! Seriously, I appreciate your taking the time to say such nice things.
Just curious--many times I have heard you ask the audience to stay very quiet, especially during the final and bonus rounds. How many (guesstimate) puzzles have had to be re-done because someone in the audience shouted out the answer? There have been shows during which the audience needed reminding several times. By the way, I can't believe anyone thought it was "sexist" for you to assist ladies (possibly in high heels) to the position on the bonus round! --Cecelia, Denver, CO
Pat: I can't remember the last time we actually had to throw a puzzle out because we heard it from the audience. More often than not, we can hear someone doing some unidentifiable whispering, and we remind them to please not think aloud. Part of the reason it happens so infrequently is that we repeatedly remind our audiences. As for the sexist stuff, I'm as baffled as you are.
Pat, I would like to know how many times has the wheel landed on $5000 when you spin it at the end of the show. Thank You. --Gordon, Loxley, AL
Pat: I have absolutely no idea, but, if I were to guess, I'd say it averages once a week. When we start the 4th round with a final spin, the wheel is positioned in a way that often makes my natural spin land in the 5K vicinity. I don't actually aim for it in the belief that it would be unfair to someone holding a big lead, so I just spin and see what happens.
In all the years of the Wheel, what do you think is the worst category that has ever been tried on the show? --Mark, Toronto, ON
Pat: That's easy. MEGAWORD! Need I say more?
Not a question just an observation. I've been playing shuffleboard (the 22 foot raised bar type) for 39 years. I became very good at it very quickly. There was only one person in all that time that I could not beat. I believe that you ( Pat ) are as good on that wheel as I am on the shuffleboard. I believe you can not only hit an amount but even the peg. From one to another. --Lance, Herald, CA
Pat: I still think you could beat me (at shuffleboard).
This is more of a comment than a question. My dad and I enjoy watching the show together. My dad gets mad tho when you try to talk the contestant out of the wild card too early in the game. Other than that he loves the show. --Angus, Colorado Springs, CO
Pat: Glad he enjoys it. As for the Wild Card, I never try to talk someone out of it, but I usually remind them of it when they land on a big dollar amount. Whether they choose to use it or not is their business.
I have enjoyed "Wheel of Fortune" all my lif as I remember. I basically have 2 questions. Number 1: What do you believe was the worst idea "wheel" ever tried? Number 2: Is there anything that you would want to bring back again to the show? Thanks, for bringing joy to many people. --Alan, Owensboro, KY
Pat: The worst idea was "The Money Hat". Vanna actually wore a hat in the bonus round with money on it. I swear it! It didn't last long, and--this will probably surprise you--I didn't treat the idea very respectfully. As for anything I'd like to bring back, it would be the ceramic dalmatian. I miss that little guy!
Pat, How did you and Joe Moore decide on who was going to do what role in "The Boys of Autumn?" We enjoyed the Sunday performance. Also, thanks for your service to your country. I'm a retired AF NCO and my husband still serves. We'll keep watching as we relocate from Honolulu to Valdosta, GA. Thanks! --Lori, Honolulu, HI
Pat: Glad you enjoyed the show. For some reason, we both knew from the start who would play whom. Thanks to you and your husband for your service, and good luck in Georgia.
Hey Pat, I am not kicking you out of your own show, but I just thought I'd write and let you know that anytime you are willing to pass the torch along to someone else, you can count on me. I believe I would be a great host and would keep the same vibrant viewership you have maintained over the years!! --Jason
Pat: You never know! I'll keep your address on file.
Hey Pat, I remember you when you were still doing the weather for KNBC-TV right here in beautiful downtown Burbank. Can you share some fond memories you had at KNBC besides doing the weather? --Nick, Burbank, CA
Pat: I also did a weekly, live, 90-minute, on-location talk show on Sundays. We built the show around community events, but most of our guests were not related to the event. So I found myself doing things like interviewing Henry Kissinger at a trout farm! Loved KNBC though. Burbank will never be the same without it.
Hello, Sir. I understand you were in the military at some point. Which branch, how long, rank, MOS, ...? How was your experience? Thank you. --Fred, Long Island, NY
Pat: Army from 1968-70. I spent half that time in Vietnam in Armed Forces Radio. All things considered, it was pretty good duty.
We've really enjoyed the show for the last 26 years. (We've been married for 41.) We wondered whether your prize trips are for two? --Homer & Edna, North Ft. Myers, FL
Pat: Generally, the trips are for two. I'm glad we could help fill up the last 26 years of your marriage, but what in the world did you do for the first 15?
You get paid to work with Vanna?
--Wayne, St. Louis
Pat: Handsomely.
We just watched wheel today and you were talking about your website so i just had to find out if it was real. --Terry, Auburn, WA
Pat: And is it?
Pat: I was eating lunch one day at The Ivy in Hollywood on Robertson, and noticed you eating the lemon pie. Crazy question, but what is your favorite pie? --Howie
Pat: Not only is this my first pie question, it's my first dessert question of any kind. Actually, my favorite pie is a seasonal one. It's the Gooseberry pie from Du-pars here in California. Pretty interesting stuff, huh?
Is there any time that you think about retiring from hosting Wheel of Fortune? --Rachel, Monroe, WI
Pat: As I get older, the thought occurs to me from time to time. I'd say it'll come in more than two years but less than ten.
I was just wondering why is there not any $650, $750, $850 and $950 wedges on the wheel for some variety? --Jon from PA
Pat: I have no idea. I wish I could promise you that I'd find out, but I'll probably forget to ask. I'm really not very dependable when it comes to things like that.
You are an absolute riot............... Everything that you say is a prethought crack or something. I GET them all... I AM somewhat like that too... its out of nervousness that I do it. Have you ever done comical stuff, standing up... --Jamie from Montreal
Pat: Most of my funniest stuff has been done while lying down.
Hi Pat! Have you ever tried touching the letters of the puzzleboard? --Clover, Boston, MA
Pat: I have, but Vanna slapped my hand!
Hi Pat, How about expanding beyond the 26 letter alphabet and using text messaging characters as letter choices in a special category "IM Me"? --Kathy, Conroe, TX
Pat: LOL
Hi, Pat. Are there a lot of people that are suspciscious about that woman that won on only one letter? I know you must have checked it out to see if it was on the up and up, other it wouldn't have been on. After all, you tape a few days before it gets on TV. Still love watching the Wheel.
Pat: There are always people who believe stuff like that. Heck, I've heard from people who think I have some sort of foot break that can stop the wheel. The fact is the solution popped into her head and, since it was a prize puzzle, she opted not to spin and risk losing the trip. Incidentally, rigging a TV game show is a federal crime, and as much as I like our players, I'm not going to prison so that they can go to the Caribbean.
Love your show, been watching your show since I can remember.... Is there going to be an end for you and the ageless vanna? --Randy, Rice Lake, WI
Pat: There's always an end. The trick is figuring out where it is.
I am very sorry to hear about the loss of Charlie. I just wanted to tell you that I always loved when he annouced the puzzle catagory "rock on" --Haley from CO
Pat: Thanks, Haley, and to all of you who wrote about Charlie. His loss is still sinking in. I think we're going to pay an ongoing tribute to Charlie by always using his voice for the "Rock On" category.
I visited Mount Vernon after attending Glenn Beck's 8/28 Rally and was pleasantly surprised to see you in the introductory video. Just wanted to let you know what a great job you did! Entertaining as always. --Gwen, Nashville, TN
Pat: I was thrilled to be asked to do that welcoming video, and I'm glad you enjoyed it. Mt. Vernon's one of my favorite places to visit. (I thought I looked pretty good in breeches, too!)
Does it make you angry when contestants land on the free play and they choose a constanant and then right after, buy a vowel? --Nala, Daytona Beach, FL
Pat: While I agree it's not the smartest move, I don't get angry. It's amazing how many common-sense things get pushed out of your mind under the pressure of playing the game in our studio. You can never know until you've done it.
Pat... I was wondering what happens in the event there's a tie between two contestants I've been watching Wheel of Fortune on and off for about 10 years and don't know what happens. --Frank, Orlando, FL
Pat: It doesn't happen often, but when it does, there's a tossup puzzle played between the two tied players with the winner going to the Bonus Round.
How to you know how many of each letter are in the puzzle so fast? Do you have them on the cards you hold or are you just that much of a genius that you just know?
Love watching Wheel! --Laura, Marysville, WA
Pat: I see the number on a small TV monitor, but I'm still a genius!
Hi Pat, do you watch Judge Judy? --Mike, Reading, UK
Pat: I've never seen her, but I've recorded every one of her shows, and I plan to watch them after I retire.
Hey Pat, at times when the confetti falls for a big win,do u get startled by the blast of the cannons? --Kyle, Long Island, NY
Pat: Hey, I was in Vietnam! Seriously, I know it's coming because I know when they've landed on the big one, so I'm prepared for it.
Say, Pat, for the bonus round, where you're in such close proximity to the contestant, are you glancing at the actual puzzle solution on that little black card you hold? Is it all in the way you palm it to shield the card from the contestant, or is it printed on there in a secret language that only you and World War II-era Navajo code talkers can decipher? Or is it merely a grocery list reminding you to pick up eggs after the show? And have I just ruined my chance of receiving an answer to a legitimate question that I've often wondered about by appending a couple of cheap gags to the end? --Ted, Woodland Hills, Ca
Pat: As the king of cheap gags, I'd be happy to answer the question. The card does have the puzzle on it, and I take great pains to keep in shielded from the player. And thanks for reminding me about the eggs.
Pat: Why don't we ever see you on the strand or at the "hot spots"? --Mery, Manhattan Beach, CA
Pat: I only go to lukewarm spots.
Hi Pat! Been watching since the middle 80's (we only got 2 channels out at the farm!) Has the wheel ever broke down or any other "technical gremlins" during the show? Thanks! --Shawn, Gann Valley, SD
Pat: Believe it or not, the only problem we've had with the wheel has been the highly untechnical one of a rubber band breaking on one of the "flippers." Other than that, the usual stuff: a blown light on the letter board, a camera giving us trouble or the host needing to use the bathroom.
Pat, you're part of our family! Only you never call... never visit.... --Anne from VA
Pat: I know, I know. Maybe if you starting sending Christmas gifts!
Hi Pat. I watch your show quite a bit.I was wondering if your show has or is coming to Canada or is it possible? Also if you don't mind me asking, how old are you now? Keep up the great work. --Mike, Windsor, ON, Canada
Pat: I'm afraid there are no plans for a Canadian visit anytime soon. As for my age, I was born on October 26, 1946. (You do the math, keeping Canadian exchange rates in mind.)
Hey Pat! Great website. Have you ever considered having a WOF classic game where you would do the shopper's showcase again? --Rhonda, Luck, WI
Pat: No, I don't think we'll be doing that. Trust me, it was the most boring two minutes in television as shoppers hemmed and hawed over whether they wanted the dining room table or the floor lamp. Anyway, thanks for the note and the kind words.
Why does the wheel no longer spin automatically during the opening of the show or during the credits? --Arthur, Toronto, ON
Pat: I never liked that because I thought it was a bad idea to demonstrate that we had the ability to automatically spin the wheel. Obviously we didn't do it during the game, but I was still pleased when our new Executive Producer removed that capability many years ago.
When the contestant spins the wheel for the bonus roound why do you have them pick up the card and hand it to you instead of you just picking it up? You tell them what card to pick up and take away from them immediately, so why dont you just grab it? --Cindy from CA
Pat: We do everything we can to demonstrate that the contestant is in charge of his own fate.
Is Vanna ever going to be replaced? --Charlene, Bathurst, NB, Canada
Pat: Only if she ever decides to leave.
I do remember you addressing this question once before on "wheel", but I can't recall your answer. Why do most contestants by a vowel near the end of the game, when they could just "envision the vowel". After all, it did cost $250 and I have seen some games that finished within that amount between two finalist. Why not keep the money and play it safe? Thanks --Ron, Acushnet, MA
Pat: They usually just want to be absolutely sure before they solve. It's more nerve-racking up there than you can "envision."
Hi Pat, My son who's 16 months now is addicted to Wheel. I was originally worried that he was so hooked given all the bad press tv watching for kids gets, but quickly realized as you pointed out about a jeopardy contestant a while back, it's a great way to learn the alphabet. I will confess we have recorded a few shows "In Case of Emergency" but are so sick of watching those few reruns. So my question is, have you ever released an anniversary DVD edition? --Maya, San Diego
Pat: No, we never have issued DVDs of individual shows. I guess you'll just have to update you "Emergency" recordings. Say hi to your son!
You and Vanna seem like you never age........ What's your secret? --Susan from KS
Pat: We have portraits in our attics that age in our place.
Just had to say I've enjoyed watching you and Vanna for years you both are like a fine wine you get better as time goes on. --Henry, London, ON, Canada
Pat: Vanna's like a fine wine. I'm more like a cheap vodka.
My wife and I like to play along with the contestants. But when you show the "bankrupt or $10,000" in advance to the viewing audience it takes away from our ability to do that. Why do you do that and are we the only audience members that find it annoying? --Russ, Ottawa, ON, Canada
Pat: No, you're not, but closing your eyes for a moment when they land on it would solve your problem.
I Made A Video For The "Vegetable Stretcher" Audio: www.youtube.com/watch?v=_cOF70oJIwA I Hope You Enjoy....~Peace~ --Sean, Cape Cod
Pat: Very cool! Thanks.
Do you know if there is a bankrupt or $10,000 on a mystery wedge before the contestant turns it over? --Linda, Ambler, PA
Pat: No, I find out along with them.
Hey, Mr. Sajak, big fan. I was just wondering when and if you should retire from Wheel are you or Vanna going to write a book about your wheel experiences? --Michael, Kansas City
Pat: Maybe a pamphlet.
On some shows, when you stand next to the contestants, you look much taller than they. How tall are you? (If you don't mind my being nosy...) --Jo from Indiana
Pat: That's always been a strange issue. We used to put our shorter contestants on boxes so they'd have leverage, and they towered over me when I stood next to them, so everyone assumed I was about 5'4" (not that there's anything wrong with that). Now our players are on adjustable risers so they can all be about equally sized, but my height goes up and down as I move from one to another. Anyway, I'm 5'10", which is pretty average, I guess, but the illusion persists that I'm several inches shorter (not that there's anything wrong with that).
Hi Pat. I recently noticed a large increase of charities selling celebrity swimsuit calendars to raise money for the needy. Will my Pat Sajak 2011 Swimsuit Calendar dream come true? --Dave, Campbell, CA
Pat: My thong is being restrung.
What's your favorite wedge? --Jacob, Houston, TX
Pat: That's an awfully personal question, but I'll answer it. It's the Mystery Wedge. Even though it could earn a player $10,000, nearly everyone has a look of terror when they land on it.
I was born in Murray, Ky. in 1950, I was told at one time you attended Murray State University and worked some at radio station WNBS in Murray. Is that correct? Thank You. --Robert, Panama City Beach, FL
Pat: Part of it is. I did work at the station in 1972, but I didn't go to school there. I'm sure all that information is engraved on the statue of me in the town square!
I love your 'mildly amusing' comments at the end. Do Wheel contestants have to spin the wheel fast enough so that the flippers go past enough rungs? If not, why don't they spin it soft when they're near the $5,000 space? --Aaron, Russellville, KY
Pat: I've made a career out of being mildly amusing. The wheel is actually pretty heavy, so all we ask is that players spin with consistency. If they ever appear to be "aiming" for a space (or if the wheel slips from their grasp), I'll stop the wheel and ask them to spin again. If that happens--and it does from time to time--we often edit it from the show to save time.
Are you friends with game show hosts other than Alex Trebek? --Eugene, Denver
Pat: I met Bob Barker in a mosh pit once.
Can the Wheel be spun in the other direction? --Gene, Camanche, IA
Pat: Only in Australia.
Pat, since this season on "Wheel of Fortune" there's cute little cartoons of you and Vanna at the beginning of the show, do you think there will ever be and Pat and Vanna plush dolls? Also, do you think the cartoon versions of you and Vanna would make a great animated television show and / or movie for families (with no bad language, like South Park)? --Sean, Lake St. Louis, MO
Pat: A doll and an animated character? I'm not sure. I have enough trouble keeping up with real-life Pat.
Will the price of a vowel ever increase? Using the Consumer Price Index, $250 in 1983 (the year Wheel debuted in syndication of course) is equal to $538 now. And the lowest dollar amount on the Wheel is $300, so players can now easily afford the $250 fee (and don't have to devote much strategizing to their decision). So: is there the chance that we will see vowel prices hiked to $500 or so? --Ron, New York
Pat: We have no plans to raise the cost of a vowel, but if we do, we'll be sure to tell the players it was your idea!
When is Alex Trebek going to be a contestant on Wheel? You have been on Jeopardy many times in the past and you played very well. --Jon from PA
Pat: As soon as he completes his alphabet-memorization course.
I thought you were kidding about this site, with Vanna and here you are! Keep up the great work, we love you and Vanna. Always fun to stop in at the Wheel. --Ger, BC Canada
Pat: Thanks. Stop by any time.
I see on your website you are a founder of GBL, yet I do not see a logo or mention of the newest team, Na Koa Ikaika Maui baseball... Maui Macaroons is a proud supporter of the new Maui team and with a name like this, you can imagine advertising by the word can get quite costly ;-) Can you please give a "shout-out" to the Maui team; with a great first year (thanks in part to the never-ending supply of amazing coconut cookies provided for each game!) --Lori, Maui, HI
Pat: You are absolutely right, and it's all my fault. It will take a few days, but the GBL logos will be updated in the "Projects" section of this site. I'm proud of the success of the Golden Baseball League and of Na Koa Ikaika Maui and the team's first-season performance. I hope to get to a game next season.
Often players call out a letter that has already been called. Is there a monitor of some sort where called letters are displayed? I can't wait for the Wheel of Fortune game to come out for Wii. I certainly hope your and Vanna's personalities shine through in the game. Wouldn't be the same without your clever comments and genuine sentiments. --Krista, Baltimore, MD
Pat: Yep, there's a used letter board, and letters disappear after they're called. But there's a lot to think about up there. Trust me, the game is much, much easier at home. As for wii, it'll be out very soon, and it looks terrific.
Hi Pat, Vanna may not have time to visit your site, but I did. --Evan from CA
Pat: Obviously, you're a better friend than she is.
Hey Pat, If you were a fighter pilot, what would your call sign be? --Dash, Los Angeles
Pat: Probably "Yellow!"
I was wondering whether the Wheel of Fortune has been in Texas. --Nick, Corpus Christi, TX
Pat: We've taped in Dallas a few times as well as in Houston and San Antonio, and we've always had a great time. We're not coming to Texas this season, but I hope it won't be too long till we're back.
Hi Pat, I don't have a question. I just wanted to tell you my wife Caroline and I enjoy "Wheel of Fortune" and think you are one of the sharpest and funniest hosts on television. --Jim, Williamsville, NY Jim Easton
Pat: I'm always gratified to hear from people with exquisite taste! Seriously, I appreciate your taking the time to say such nice things.
Just curious--many times I have heard you ask the audience to stay very quiet, especially during the final and bonus rounds. How many (guesstimate) puzzles have had to be re-done because someone in the audience shouted out the answer? There have been shows during which the audience needed reminding several times. By the way, I can't believe anyone thought it was "sexist" for you to assist ladies (possibly in high heels) to the position on the bonus round! --Cecelia, Denver, CO
Pat: I can't remember the last time we actually had to throw a puzzle out because we heard it from the audience. More often than not, we can hear someone doing some unidentifiable whispering, and we remind them to please not think aloud. Part of the reason it happens so infrequently is that we repeatedly remind our audiences. As for the sexist stuff, I'm as baffled as you are.
Pat, I would like to know how many times has the wheel landed on $5000 when you spin it at the end of the show. Thank You. --Gordon, Loxley, AL
Pat: I have absolutely no idea, but, if I were to guess, I'd say it averages once a week. When we start the 4th round with a final spin, the wheel is positioned in a way that often makes my natural spin land in the 5K vicinity. I don't actually aim for it in the belief that it would be unfair to someone holding a big lead, so I just spin and see what happens.
In all the years of the Wheel, what do you think is the worst category that has ever been tried on the show? --Mark, Toronto, ON
Pat: That's easy. MEGAWORD! Need I say more?
Not a question just an observation. I've been playing shuffleboard (the 22 foot raised bar type) for 39 years. I became very good at it very quickly. There was only one person in all that time that I could not beat. I believe that you ( Pat ) are as good on that wheel as I am on the shuffleboard. I believe you can not only hit an amount but even the peg. From one to another. --Lance, Herald, CA
Pat: I still think you could beat me (at shuffleboard).
This is more of a comment than a question. My dad and I enjoy watching the show together. My dad gets mad tho when you try to talk the contestant out of the wild card too early in the game. Other than that he loves the show. --Angus, Colorado Springs, CO
Pat: Glad he enjoys it. As for the Wild Card, I never try to talk someone out of it, but I usually remind them of it when they land on a big dollar amount. Whether they choose to use it or not is their business.
I have enjoyed "Wheel of Fortune" all my lif as I remember. I basically have 2 questions. Number 1: What do you believe was the worst idea "wheel" ever tried? Number 2: Is there anything that you would want to bring back again to the show? Thanks, for bringing joy to many people. --Alan, Owensboro, KY
Pat: The worst idea was "The Money Hat". Vanna actually wore a hat in the bonus round with money on it. I swear it! It didn't last long, and--this will probably surprise you--I didn't treat the idea very respectfully. As for anything I'd like to bring back, it would be the ceramic dalmatian. I miss that little guy!
Pat, How did you and Joe Moore decide on who was going to do what role in "The Boys of Autumn?" We enjoyed the Sunday performance. Also, thanks for your service to your country. I'm a retired AF NCO and my husband still serves. We'll keep watching as we relocate from Honolulu to Valdosta, GA. Thanks! --Lori, Honolulu, HI
Pat: Glad you enjoyed the show. For some reason, we both knew from the start who would play whom. Thanks to you and your husband for your service, and good luck in Georgia.
Hey Pat, I am not kicking you out of your own show, but I just thought I'd write and let you know that anytime you are willing to pass the torch along to someone else, you can count on me. I believe I would be a great host and would keep the same vibrant viewership you have maintained over the years!! --Jason
Pat: You never know! I'll keep your address on file.
Hey Pat, I remember you when you were still doing the weather for KNBC-TV right here in beautiful downtown Burbank. Can you share some fond memories you had at KNBC besides doing the weather? --Nick, Burbank, CA
Pat: I also did a weekly, live, 90-minute, on-location talk show on Sundays. We built the show around community events, but most of our guests were not related to the event. So I found myself doing things like interviewing Henry Kissinger at a trout farm! Loved KNBC though. Burbank will never be the same without it.
Hello, Sir. I understand you were in the military at some point. Which branch, how long, rank, MOS, ...? How was your experience? Thank you. --Fred, Long Island, NY
Pat: Army from 1968-70. I spent half that time in Vietnam in Armed Forces Radio. All things considered, it was pretty good duty.
We've really enjoyed the show for the last 26 years. (We've been married for 41.) We wondered whether your prize trips are for two? --Homer & Edna, North Ft. Myers, FL
Pat: Generally, the trips are for two. I'm glad we could help fill up the last 26 years of your marriage, but what in the world did you do for the first 15?
You get paid to work with Vanna?
--Wayne, St. LouisPat: Handsomely.
We just watched wheel today and you were talking about your website so i just had to find out if it was real. --Terry, Auburn, WA
Pat: And is it?
Pat: I was eating lunch one day at The Ivy in Hollywood on Robertson, and noticed you eating the lemon pie. Crazy question, but what is your favorite pie? --Howie
Pat: Not only is this my first pie question, it's my first dessert question of any kind. Actually, my favorite pie is a seasonal one. It's the Gooseberry pie from Du-pars here in California. Pretty interesting stuff, huh?
Is there any time that you think about retiring from hosting Wheel of Fortune? --Rachel, Monroe, WI
Pat: As I get older, the thought occurs to me from time to time. I'd say it'll come in more than two years but less than ten.
I was just wondering why is there not any $650, $750, $850 and $950 wedges on the wheel for some variety? --Jon from PA
Pat: I have no idea. I wish I could promise you that I'd find out, but I'll probably forget to ask. I'm really not very dependable when it comes to things like that.
You are an absolute riot............... Everything that you say is a prethought crack or something. I GET them all... I AM somewhat like that too... its out of nervousness that I do it. Have you ever done comical stuff, standing up... --Jamie from Montreal
Pat: Most of my funniest stuff has been done while lying down.
Hi Pat! Have you ever tried touching the letters of the puzzleboard? --Clover, Boston, MA
Pat: I have, but Vanna slapped my hand!
Hi Pat, How about expanding beyond the 26 letter alphabet and using text messaging characters as letter choices in a special category "IM Me"? --Kathy, Conroe, TX
Pat: LOL
Hi, Pat. Are there a lot of people that are suspciscious about that woman that won on only one letter? I know you must have checked it out to see if it was on the up and up, other it wouldn't have been on. After all, you tape a few days before it gets on TV. Still love watching the Wheel.
Pat: There are always people who believe stuff like that. Heck, I've heard from people who think I have some sort of foot break that can stop the wheel. The fact is the solution popped into her head and, since it was a prize puzzle, she opted not to spin and risk losing the trip. Incidentally, rigging a TV game show is a federal crime, and as much as I like our players, I'm not going to prison so that they can go to the Caribbean.
Love your show, been watching your show since I can remember.... Is there going to be an end for you and the ageless vanna? --Randy, Rice Lake, WI
Pat: There's always an end. The trick is figuring out where it is.
I am very sorry to hear about the loss of Charlie. I just wanted to tell you that I always loved when he annouced the puzzle catagory "rock on" --Haley from CO
Pat: Thanks, Haley, and to all of you who wrote about Charlie. His loss is still sinking in. I think we're going to pay an ongoing tribute to Charlie by always using his voice for the "Rock On" category.
I visited Mount Vernon after attending Glenn Beck's 8/28 Rally and was pleasantly surprised to see you in the introductory video. Just wanted to let you know what a great job you did! Entertaining as always. --Gwen, Nashville, TN
Pat: I was thrilled to be asked to do that welcoming video, and I'm glad you enjoyed it. Mt. Vernon's one of my favorite places to visit. (I thought I looked pretty good in breeches, too!)
Does it make you angry when contestants land on the free play and they choose a constanant and then right after, buy a vowel? --Nala, Daytona Beach, FL
Pat: While I agree it's not the smartest move, I don't get angry. It's amazing how many common-sense things get pushed out of your mind under the pressure of playing the game in our studio. You can never know until you've done it.
Pat... I was wondering what happens in the event there's a tie between two contestants I've been watching Wheel of Fortune on and off for about 10 years and don't know what happens. --Frank, Orlando, FL
Pat: It doesn't happen often, but when it does, there's a tossup puzzle played between the two tied players with the winner going to the Bonus Round.
How to you know how many of each letter are in the puzzle so fast? Do you have them on the cards you hold or are you just that much of a genius that you just know?
Love watching Wheel! --Laura, Marysville, WAPat: I see the number on a small TV monitor, but I'm still a genius!
Hi Pat, do you watch Judge Judy? --Mike, Reading, UK
Pat: I've never seen her, but I've recorded every one of her shows, and I plan to watch them after I retire.
Hey Pat, at times when the confetti falls for a big win,do u get startled by the blast of the cannons? --Kyle, Long Island, NY
Pat: Hey, I was in Vietnam! Seriously, I know it's coming because I know when they've landed on the big one, so I'm prepared for it.
Say, Pat, for the bonus round, where you're in such close proximity to the contestant, are you glancing at the actual puzzle solution on that little black card you hold? Is it all in the way you palm it to shield the card from the contestant, or is it printed on there in a secret language that only you and World War II-era Navajo code talkers can decipher? Or is it merely a grocery list reminding you to pick up eggs after the show? And have I just ruined my chance of receiving an answer to a legitimate question that I've often wondered about by appending a couple of cheap gags to the end? --Ted, Woodland Hills, Ca
Pat: As the king of cheap gags, I'd be happy to answer the question. The card does have the puzzle on it, and I take great pains to keep in shielded from the player. And thanks for reminding me about the eggs.
Pat: Why don't we ever see you on the strand or at the "hot spots"? --Mery, Manhattan Beach, CA
Pat: I only go to lukewarm spots.
Hi Pat! Been watching since the middle 80's (we only got 2 channels out at the farm!) Has the wheel ever broke down or any other "technical gremlins" during the show? Thanks! --Shawn, Gann Valley, SD
Pat: Believe it or not, the only problem we've had with the wheel has been the highly untechnical one of a rubber band breaking on one of the "flippers." Other than that, the usual stuff: a blown light on the letter board, a camera giving us trouble or the host needing to use the bathroom.
Pat, you're part of our family! Only you never call... never visit.... --Anne from VA
Pat: I know, I know. Maybe if you starting sending Christmas gifts!
Hi Pat. I watch your show quite a bit.I was wondering if your show has or is coming to Canada or is it possible? Also if you don't mind me asking, how old are you now? Keep up the great work. --Mike, Windsor, ON, Canada
Pat: I'm afraid there are no plans for a Canadian visit anytime soon. As for my age, I was born on October 26, 1946. (You do the math, keeping Canadian exchange rates in mind.)
Hey Pat! Great website. Have you ever considered having a WOF classic game where you would do the shopper's showcase again? --Rhonda, Luck, WI
Pat: No, I don't think we'll be doing that. Trust me, it was the most boring two minutes in television as shoppers hemmed and hawed over whether they wanted the dining room table or the floor lamp. Anyway, thanks for the note and the kind words.
Why does the wheel no longer spin automatically during the opening of the show or during the credits? --Arthur, Toronto, ON
Pat: I never liked that because I thought it was a bad idea to demonstrate that we had the ability to automatically spin the wheel. Obviously we didn't do it during the game, but I was still pleased when our new Executive Producer removed that capability many years ago.
When the contestant spins the wheel for the bonus roound why do you have them pick up the card and hand it to you instead of you just picking it up? You tell them what card to pick up and take away from them immediately, so why dont you just grab it? --Cindy from CA
Pat: We do everything we can to demonstrate that the contestant is in charge of his own fate.
Is Vanna ever going to be replaced? --Charlene, Bathurst, NB, Canada
Pat: Only if she ever decides to leave.
I do remember you addressing this question once before on "wheel", but I can't recall your answer. Why do most contestants by a vowel near the end of the game, when they could just "envision the vowel". After all, it did cost $250 and I have seen some games that finished within that amount between two finalist. Why not keep the money and play it safe? Thanks --Ron, Acushnet, MA
Pat: They usually just want to be absolutely sure before they solve. It's more nerve-racking up there than you can "envision."
Hi Pat, My son who's 16 months now is addicted to Wheel. I was originally worried that he was so hooked given all the bad press tv watching for kids gets, but quickly realized as you pointed out about a jeopardy contestant a while back, it's a great way to learn the alphabet. I will confess we have recorded a few shows "In Case of Emergency" but are so sick of watching those few reruns. So my question is, have you ever released an anniversary DVD edition? --Maya, San Diego
Pat: No, we never have issued DVDs of individual shows. I guess you'll just have to update you "Emergency" recordings. Say hi to your son!
You and Vanna seem like you never age........ What's your secret? --Susan from KS
Pat: We have portraits in our attics that age in our place.
Just had to say I've enjoyed watching you and Vanna for years you both are like a fine wine you get better as time goes on. --Henry, London, ON, Canada
Pat: Vanna's like a fine wine. I'm more like a cheap vodka.
My wife and I like to play along with the contestants. But when you show the "bankrupt or $10,000" in advance to the viewing audience it takes away from our ability to do that. Why do you do that and are we the only audience members that find it annoying? --Russ, Ottawa, ON, Canada
Pat: No, you're not, but closing your eyes for a moment when they land on it would solve your problem.
I Made A Video For The "Vegetable Stretcher" Audio: www.youtube.com/watch?v=_cOF70oJIwA I Hope You Enjoy....~Peace~ --Sean, Cape Cod
Pat: Very cool! Thanks.
Do you know if there is a bankrupt or $10,000 on a mystery wedge before the contestant turns it over? --Linda, Ambler, PA
Pat: No, I find out along with them.
