A North Carolina educator delivered one of the most memorable moments of the current Wheel of Fortune season, securing a major win through quick thinking and calm focus. Cory Earp, a sixth-grade language arts teacher from Taylorsville, became the first contestant of the show’s 43rd season to claim the coveted $100,000 prize. Stepping onto the famous stage, he impressed viewers with his steady puzzle-solving skills and confident demeanor.
Earp competed against fellow educators from Chicago and Arizona in a closely matched episode. He started strong by solving both Toss-Up puzzles, building early momentum. Although he briefly hit a setback after landing on a Bankrupt wedge, he recovered quickly and continued solving puzzles with accuracy. One correct answer involving a fashion-themed phrase added significantly to his score, keeping him in contention throughout the game.
The turning point came during the Triple Toss-Ups, where Earp demonstrated remarkable speed by solving all three puzzles in rapid succession. That performance earned him $10,000 and allowed him to pull ahead by the end of regular play. He finished with $26,450 and advanced to the Bonus Round as the night’s leading contestant.
For the final puzzle, Earp selected the category “What Are You Wearing?” With family members watching from the stage, he quickly solved the phrase “Fancy Blazer.” The correct answer revealed the top prize of $100,000, bringing his total winnings to $126,450. The moment drew cheers from the audience and praise from fans celebrating a well-earned victory.
