Jeopardy! Contestants Share Surprising Backstage Secrets and Stern Warnings About “The Wheel”

Jeopardy! is a beloved television game show that has been a staple of American culture since its inception in 1964. Known for its brainy trivia, iconic host, and nail-biting moments, Jeopardy! continues to capture the hearts of viewers worldwide. While fans enjoy the show from the comfort of their homes, the behind-the-scenes experiences of contestants are a mystery to many. Recently, former Jeopardy! contestants have opened up about what happens backstage, shedding light on the hidden details and shocking rules that keep the game running smoothly.

One of the more startling revelations came from contestants discussing the strict warnings they received about “The Wheel”—referring to the Wheel of Fortune set next door to the Jeopardy! studio. The iconic gameshows are filmed at Sony Pictures Studios in Culver City, California, in two adjacent soundstages. While Jeopardy! operates from The Alex Trebek Stage (formerly Studio 10), Wheel of Fortune films next door in Studio 11. Contestants were surprised to learn just how restricted they were in relation to the other show, especially when it came to interacting with the Wheel of Fortune set.

The Strict Rule: “Do Not Touch the Wheel”

It’s not uncommon for fans of Jeopardy! to wonder what goes on backstage during the taping of the show, and one particularly intriguing revelation was the stern warning given to contestants: “Do not touch the wheel.” This directive became a hot topic in a Jeopardy!-dedicated Reddit thread, where former contestants shared their behind-the-scenes stories. As one contestant shared, “We were heavily warned not to touch it or go near it,” referring to the Wheel of Fortune set. Despite the allure of the large, spinning wheel, contestants were cautioned to keep their distance, with some even joking about their disappointment in not being able to spin it.

Another contestant recalled, “I was bummed too. I asked, but it was covered in a nice thick tarp and we were told firmly not to touch it.” The idea of getting close to such an iconic piece of television history was understandably exciting for many of them, yet the set was off-limits. The strict rules about the Wheel of Fortune set added an extra layer of intrigue to the filming experience for Jeopardy! contestants.

A Unique Backstage Experience

While Jeopardy! contestants have their own backstage rituals, many of them interact with the Wheel of Fortune set in an unexpected way. One contestant described the experience of waiting for their taping to begin by sitting in the Wheel of Fortune audience seats, due to pandemic restrictions. The contestant noted, “We even got to stand by the Wheel waiting for makeup.” It was a surreal moment for the contestant, who was able to be close to the set but never allowed to touch the famous wheel.

This interaction, albeit brief, gives viewers a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes world of game show filming. Jeopardy! and Wheel of Fortune share not just the same studio space, but in some cases, even the same crew. The two shows operate on separate filming schedules, with each filming for two weeks before taking a break while the other films.

Behind the Scenes: Jeopardy! Secrets

While the set rules may have caught some contestants by surprise, other aspects of the Jeopardy! backstage experience were just as intriguing. Many contestants have shared the quiet moments spent in the Green Room, where they wait for their turn to compete. One Jeopardy! contestant shared their experience of being briefed on the rules and legal matters while sitting in the audience seating area. They also discussed the logistical aspects of the taping process, such as the fact that each contestant is asked to bring three outfits and the specific wardrobe guidelines that prohibit certain patterns and colors.

In another Reddit thread, a contestant revealed that each contestant has a small white light on their podium that signals who is next to buzz in. They also noted the interesting fact that Jeopardy! contestants do not get an advantage on the buzzer just because they have control of the board—meaning that the order of play is not determined by who has control at the time. These small details shed light on the intricate systems that make Jeopardy! run efficiently, and they showcase the professionalism and attention to detail that goes into every taping.

The Jeopardy! and Wheel of Fortune Connection

The connection between Jeopardy! and Wheel of Fortune extends beyond their shared studio space. Both shows have had a profound impact on American television, shaping the game show genre and attracting millions of viewers over the years. While Jeopardy! is known for its intellectual challenge and fast-paced trivia, Wheel of Fortune offers a more lighthearted approach with its word puzzles and iconic spinning wheel. Despite the differences in format, both shows have enjoyed sustained popularity due to their unique appeal.

For many fans, the crossover between the two shows is a fun aspect of their viewing experience, and the idea of seeing Jeopardy! contestants waiting in the Wheel of Fortune audience seats only adds to the intrigue. These behind-the-scenes moments remind us that the magic of television isn’t just what we see on the screen, but also the camaraderie, rules, and structures that make these shows work behind the scenes.

Conclusion: A Peek Behind the Curtain

The revelations about Jeopardy! contestants’ backstage experiences—especially their interactions with the Wheel of Fortune set—offer a rare peek behind the curtain of two of television’s most iconic game shows. From the strict “do not touch” rule regarding the Wheel of Fortune set to the detailed backstage procedures that keep the taping process running smoothly, these insights remind us that there’s more to these shows than meets the eye. As Jeopardy! continues to captivate viewers with its sharp questions and fierce competition, it’s clear that the behind-the-scenes work, including the logistics and rules that govern the game, is just as integral to its success.

As both Jeopardy! and Wheel of Fortune continue to evolve, fans will undoubtedly remain fascinated by the intricacies that make these beloved shows so engaging. Whether it’s the strict rules or the fascinating details of the set, there’s always more to uncover when it comes to the world of game shows.