It’s a television show that has captivated entire generations and has become an emblem of popular culture: In 2025, Wheel of Fortune celebrates half a century of captivating viewers around the world – one of the longest-running shows in the world! Since its U.S. debut in 1975, the iconic roulette has kept its essence intact, while adapting to the changing times. A simple game, a charismatic host or hostess – wherever it is broadcasted – and the chance to win prizes have been the key to its success for five decades.
The origin of a worldwide success
Created by Merv Griffin, the original program, known in English as Wheel of Fortune, premiered in 1975 on American television. The premise was simple: participants spun a wheel to determine the value of the letters they were trying to guess to complete a panel. A combination of luck and strategy made the program catch the public’s attention from the very beginning. Over the years, Wheel of Fortune became a global phenomenon, adapting to different languages and cultures. From Europe to Asia, the format has found a home in dozens of countries, establishing itself as a family show that transcends generations.
The Spanish version: La roulette de la suerte (The roulette of luck)
In Spain, the program arrived in the late 1990s under the name La roulette de la suerte and is currently broadcast on Antena 3. With colorful aesthetics, live music and thematic panels, the Spanish version has been able to adapt to the national audience without losing the essence of the original format. In fact, almost thirty years later it continues to be one of the most watched programs on television, reaching almost two million viewers a day. One of the factors that has ensured the longevity of La roulette de la fortuna is its ability to create an interactive experience for viewers. From home, families can try to guess the panels while watching the contestants do so in the studio. This participatory component makes the program much more than just a TV quiz show. In recent years, the format has integrated modern technologies to continue to connect with new audiences. For example, social networks and mobile applications allow viewers to participate in similar games from their devices, keeping interest in the program alive.
Iconic moments and program legends
Throughout its 50-year history, La roulette de la fortuna has provided unforgettable moments. From spectacular wins to hilarious answers that have gone viral, the show has proven that it is capable of surprising and amusing in every episode. Moreover, some of its hosts, such as Pat Sajak and Vanna White in the original version, have become true television legends. In the case of Spain, host Jorge Fernández has been leading the program for years with his own style that has contributed to maintaining its freshness. His interaction with the contestants and the audience is one of the keys to the continued success of La ruleta de la suerte. La roulette de la fortuna has not only entertained millions of people, but has also left a mark in the history of television itself and, therefore, in pop culture. Phrases such as “spin the wheel” or the iconic sounds of the wheel spinning are instantly recognizable anywhere in the world. This cultural impact is a testament to the power of a well-designed format that manages to connect with audiences of all ages. The program has also been a source of inspiration for other TV quiz show formats, proving that the combination of entertainment, competition and audience participation is a winning recipe. As the television landscape evolves, La roulette de la fortuna has been able to adapt without losing its essence. In a world where on-demand content and streaming platforms dominate, the program continues to prove that live television has a special place in viewers’ hearts. Digital versions of the program have also expanded its reach, allowing more people to experience the thrill of the wheel from anywhere in the world. This balance between tradition and innovation is what has allowed the program to remain relevant for five decades. To celebrate 50 years of Wheel of Fortune is to celebrate the power of entertainment that brings people together. This legendary television program has shown that, with a simple but effective premise, it is possible to capture the imagination of millions of viewers over time. And even more so if, in the 21st century, it is supported by its online gaming versions. Here’s to many more years of spinning roulette!
