I know that you are probably shocked to learn that Wheel of Fortune is one of my favorite TV shows, but it's true. You probably thought I was way too cool and awesome to like a show that is designed for a slightly older demographic, but oh no- I'm a Wheel watcher. (I really love Jeopardy, too!) I used to watch all the time with my Grandma Em and my Dad, and now I watch with my roommate Carolyn when we get home from work.A few months ago we were watching and they announced that Wheel would be taping some shows at Radio City Music Hall, so I sent in my self-addressed stamped envelope and BAM- We got tickets! Unfortunately, Carolyn had to miss the taping because of the small business of celebrating her four year anniversary with her boyfriend (minor detail) so I invited my friends Jake, Doug and Ryan to come with me.
I wish that I had amazing news to report about the show, but I was severely let down! The taping was SO BORING! Now don't get me wrong- I'm fully aware that Wheel of Fortune isn't like Fear Factor or Amazing Race, but it was the slowest moving taping I have ever attended. I'm sure a small part of it had to do with the fact I'm slightly desensitized to TV tapings but I couldn't believe the amount of down time that went on between puzzles! The contestants would solve a puzzle (which took about 5 minutes) and then they would take a "commercial break" that lasted over 15 minutes at a time! It took nearly an hour to tape a 22 minute show. I was severely bored... sorry, Wheel.Pat Sajack was great, Vanna looked amazing and as an added bonus it was People Magazine Celebrities Week. I will use the term "celebrities" loosely because I mean, it's not like that many A-listers are vying for a place on the Wheel, but it definitely makes for a good story later. I'm a firm believer in going through awkward/unusual situations simply to have the story to tell later. This time was no different.
So, I guess I learned that sometimes the magic of television should be left where it belongs; on television. I'll stick to watching Wheel of Fortune weeknights at 7:30pm. In case you were wondering when the taping will air, you can check out the two shows I attended on November 15th and 16th.
*Thanks to nerdgirljulie for illegally taking photos inside so I could use them!
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