Is Wheel Of Fortune’s Wild New “Candy” Collaboration A Publicity Stunt?

Since its 1975 debut, Wheel of Fortune has taken part in numerous collaborations, and their most recent partnership may be a way to get the show more attention. After some recent bad press, it’s possible that the production team’s trying to change the subject. The game show’s past partnerships have expanded its cultural reach, keeping the show fresh for audiences. It’s also collaborated with other game shows and TV networks, like special crossover events with Jeopardy! or appearances on ABC’s prime-time specials, blending fan bases and boosting viewership. These partnerships leverage Wheel’s massive popularity to create mutually beneficial marketing opportunities.

Since Wheel Of Fortune premiered, it’s been thrilling audiences with its captivating gameplay. The show was hosted by Pat Sajak for over four decades until his retirement in 2024, with Vanna White as the iconic letter-turner. These days, the beloved game show is hosted by Ryan Seacrest. The show is as popular as ever, but some fans have recently started questioning whether the production team is running out of prize money. The concerns have led to some bad publicity lately. Did the show announce their recent collaboration to take attention away from questions about the game’s integrity?

Dylan’s Candy Bar Collaboration

“Spin the Wheel, Grab a Sweet Deal”

Wheel of Fortune has teamed up with renowned candy retailer Dylan’s Candy Bar, to launch a limited-edition merchandise collection that captures the playful spirit of both brands. The collaboration introduces a range of sweet-themed products, including apparel, accessories, and novelty items. They’re all inspired by the iconic game show’s colorful aesthetic and Dylan’s Candy Bar’s whimsical vibe. Fans can expect designs featuring the famous Wheel logo intertwined with candy motifs, creating a nostalgic yet fresh appeal. The collection aims to celebrate the joy and excitement of spinning the wheel while indulging in the sugary charm of Dylan’s Candy.

The collaboration was teased as a sweet surprise on Wheel of Fortune’s social media and in promotional materials. Available through Dylan’s Candy Bar’s online store and select retail locations, as well as Wheel of Fortune’s official merchandise site, the collection includes standout pieces like T-shirts with phrases like “Spin the Wheel, Grab a Sweet Deal” and candy-shaped keychains modeled after the show’s prize wedges. According to Parade, the partnership reflects a shared emphasis on fun and celebration. This marks one of Wheel’s more unique merchandising ventures, distinct from its typical collaborations with brands like Disney or travel companies.

Beyond the merchandise, the Wheel of Fortune and Dylan’s Candy Bar collaboration taps into a broader trend of nostalgic TV shows partnering with lifestyle brands. The goal is to engage younger audiences and expand their cultural footprint. Some items, like limited-edition candy jars featuring Wheel puzzles, double as collectibles, encouraging fans to display their love for the show in a sweet new way. While specific sales figures are unavailable, the collaboration has been praised for its creativity. This partnership diversifies Wheel’s merchandising and reinforces its ability to stay relevant through innovative collaborations.

Past Wheel Of Fortune Collaborations

They’ve Partnered With Big Celebrities & Major Brands

Wheel Of Fortune is no stranger to fun collaborations. One notable partnership has been with major brands for themed episodes and promotions, such as Disney, Coca-Cola, and Ford. Brands often integrate their products or intellectual properties into puzzles, set designs, and prize packages. For example, Wheel Of Fortune‘s Disney Week episodes often feature puzzles inspired by Disney films, characters, or theme parks, with contestants winning trips to Walt Disney World or Disneyland.

“Don’t be surprised if we get no more wins in the remainder of the season.”

Beyond commercial tie-ins, Wheel of Fortune has collaborated with charitable organizations. The show’s Celebrity Wheel of Fortune episodes feature stars like Neil Patrick Harris, Snoop Dogg, or Chrissy Teigen spinning the wheel to raise funds for charities like Feeding America or the American Red Cross. These episodes combine entertainment with philanthropy, drawing in viewers who enjoy seeing celebrities supporting worthy causes. Wheel has also partnered with organizations for special initiatives, like military appreciation weeks with the USO or breast cancer awareness campaigns. These collaborations reinforce Wheel’s role as a family-friendly show with a heart for giving back.

Is Wheel Of Fortune In Financial Trouble?

Fan Speculations Have Been Running Rampant Online

In May, the series aired its 14th consecutive Wheel of Fortune episode where a contestant failed to win the Bonus Round, which led to fans wondering if the show was cutting back on prize payouts for the season. Danny Harrison, an aspiring commercial pilot from Florida, was the latest to fail to guess the word puzzle. After banking $28,890 in the main game, he couldn’t solve the Bonus Round puzzle, “BAKING A QUICHE,” and missed out on an additional $40,000. Fans took to the Wheel of Fortune Reddit forum speculating that the puzzles have been too hard lately.

“They had too many wins and can’t afford any more,” said user Takora06. “Don’t be surprised if we get no more wins in the remainder of the season.” The person went on to compare it to another season, writing, “This same thing happened in Season 36 at the exact same point. The final six weeks, starting at the last Monday of April, had a record 20 losses in a row (shattering the previous record of 17 set in Dec 2000-Jan 2001), then one win (on a “show 6”/compilation ep that taped earlier than the other weeks), then nine more losses.”

“They aren’t pulling in the money like they used to.”

The Reddit post was jam-packed with other users sharing similar sentiments. “It’s end of season budget crunch,” said another user. Wheel of Fortune season 42 wraps up next month, so the theory is that the production team has blown through their budget. One fan had a theory, writing, “For the same reason the lowest prize hasn’t moved up from $40,000 in several seasons: They aren’t pulling in the money like they used to.” The fan went on to speculate that the show’s large crew and Vanna’s big raise cost too much.