BetMGM Sponsoring A Progressive Jackpot Bonus All Week On ‘Wheel Of Fortune’

Wheel of Fortune invaded the casino slots world 27 years ago. This week, the casino world is invading Wheel of Fortune.

All week long, as the syndicated game show celebrates the airing of its 8,000th episode with what it is terming “Big Money Week,” BetMGM will sponsor a special progressive jackpot as well as a wedge on the giant wheel that players spin.

BetMGM’s online sportsbook operates in 21 states, and its online casino is available in four: Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia. Neither form of gambling is regulated online, however, in the state in which Wheel of Fortune tapes, California.

“BetMGM is honored to join Wheel of Fortune during this milestone week and be a part of a game show that has earned a place in American television history,” BetMGM CEO Adam Greenblatt said in a press release. “‘Big Money Week’ is a great collaboration, giving contestants and viewers at home the opportunity to experience the excitement of a progressive jackpot.”

Growing fortune

This marks the first time Wheel has incorporated a progressive jackpot — a staple of many live and online casino games, including slots and table games, with the amount available to win growing until a player hits it. On the show, that jackpot amount will be added to the winnings of a contestant who solves the show’s Bonus Puzzle.

There is also going to be a spot on the wheel marked “Double Jackpot” with BetMGM branding that will add double that progressive jackpot amount if a player with that wedge in their possession wins the Bonus Round.

The BetMGM logo is all over the set this week, not just on the wheel but on the show’s video screens as well.

As the show celebrates its milestone episode, it is also nearing a major farewell. Host Pat Sajak, 77, is retiring, with his last show (which has already been recorded) scheduled to air June 7. Ryan Seacrest, 49, will take over as the new host, while Vanna White, 67, will stay on as co-host.

In addition to Wheel-branded slot machines that debuted on casino floors in 1997, Wheel of Fortune’s gambling presence expanded in March 2023, when BetMGM and IGT launched Wheel of Fortune Online Casino — which is currently available only in New Jersey.