In a surprising twist during Monday's episode of “Wheel of Fortune,” host Ryan Seacrest found himself in an unexpected situation when he was pulled into a headlock by a contestant. The 50-year-old television personality, known for his role on “American Idol,” had quite the memorable moment with contestant Big Bill Page, also 50, from Wilmington, Delaware.
The episode kicked off with Page, who wasted no time in showcasing his wrestling background by wrapping his hands around Seacrest’s neck. Despite the suddenness of the move, Seacrest attempted to maintain his composure but ultimately had to “tap out” by slapping the table as Page pulled him down to the floor. This unexpected headlock quickly became a highlight of the episode, captivating the audience and adding an element of surprise to the game show.
After the playful wrestling match, Page went on to compete in “Wheel of Fortune,” where he demonstrated his skills and won an impressive total of $24,600 in cash, along with a vacation trip to St. Martin. Dressed in a vibrant Hawaiian shirt adorned with images of his six grandchildren, Page made it to the Bonus Round, where he faced a challenging word puzzle: “PAIR OF WHITE GLOVES.” Although he did not solve the puzzle, Seacrest revealed that Page would have won a brand-new Ford Bronco if he had succeeded.
Despite not clinching the additional prize, Page remained in high spirits, expressing gratitude for his winnings as he shook hands with Seacrest. A post-show interview with Maggie Sajak, the show's social media correspondent and daughter of former host Pat Sajak, provided further insight into Page's wrestling past and his experience on the show.
Maggie humorously remarked on how the episode began with Seacrest in a headlock, questioning if Page had planned to showcase his wrestling moves. Page shared, “Oh, I wasn’t sure. I told them I did pro wrestling. They said, ‘What kind of moves can you put on Ryan?’ I said, ‘Well, I guess the easiest one would be headlock.'” This lighthearted banter added to the charm of the episode and showcased Page's personality.
During the interview, Page reminisced about his high school wrestling days and his involvement in the East Coast Wrestling Association. “I did all that, off the top rope, getting slammed, kicked in the head, everything,” he recalled. His enthusiasm for wrestling shone through as he mentioned being inducted into the hall of fame of the organization.
As the interview concluded, Page shared a heartfelt message to his grandchildren, stating, “Love you guys. I love every one of you.” This touching moment highlighted both his competitive spirit and the love he holds for his family.
Ryan Seacrest's encounter with Big Bill Page on “Wheel of Fortune” not only provided entertainment but also highlighted the joy of competition and the importance of family. This episode will surely be remembered for its unique blend of humor, wrestling nostalgia, and heartwarming moments.
