Watching a game show at home is simple, but being a contestant is a whole different experience. The bright lights, cameras, and pressure can make anyone feel overwhelmed. Wheel of Fortune is known for giving contestants the chance to embarrass themselves on national television. Many people end up going viral for their surprising guesses that seem obvious to viewers at home. With over 8 million viewers each night, any mistake can draw a lot of attention.
One contestant who gained attention was Gishma Tabari from Encino, California. In 2023, she made an imaginative guess on a puzzle that left many viewers shaking their heads. The puzzle had three words and read: “TH _ _ RITI _ S _ GR _ E.” Tabari guessed, “The British Ogre,” which surprised the host, Pat Sajak, who said it was incorrect. She seemed to overlook a key detail in the puzzle, as the word “ogre” would require two Rs to fit correctly. Additionally, England isn’t a place associated with ogres. The correct answer was, “The Critics Agree.”
This answer sparked a lot of reactions on X, where users were amazed by her creative guess. Some shared their disbelief, pointing out how funny it was that someone could come up with such an unusual answer to a simple puzzle. One person even made an illustration of what a British Ogre might look like. While many found humor in the situation, not everyone was critical; some thought “The British Ogre” would make a great band name.
Interestingly, Tabari’s guess provided an opportunity for people to learn about ogres in folklore. Ogres are not a big part of English stories, although some characters have similar traits, like Grendel from “Beowulf.” The Boggart, which is a tricky spirit resembling hobgoblins and trolls, is also mentioned in English tales but has Scandinavian roots. For those seeking ogres in Europe, France is the place to look, as the term comes from the name of Orcus, the Etruscan god of the underworld, known for his monstrous appearance and appetite for human flesh.
Meanwhile, Wheel of Fortune continues to change. Pat Sajak retired after hosting for 41 years, with his last episode airing on June 7, 2024. Ryan Seacrest took over in September 2024 and completed his first full season with co-host Vanna White. In March 2026, the show was renewed for two additional seasons, extending through 2027, although Vanna White’s contract status was still uncertain at the time. Sajak has made some guest appearances since his retirement.
What do you think about Gishma Tabari’s guess on Wheel of Fortune?
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Source: Upworthy, by Upworthy