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Derek Hough Denies Ryan Seacrest’s Claim He Climbed the ‘Wheel of Fortune’ Prop

The pushback targets a USA Today anecdote that framed the show’s lone, heavy wheel as off-limits for safety.

Overview

  • In a USA Today interview, Ryan Seacrest said Derek Hough jumped onto the center of the wheel during a break and had Bruno Tonioli spin him as staff warned against it.
  • Hough responded on Instagram, writing the story is “1000% NOT true” and saying he would never disrespect the set.
  • Multiple outlets report Seacrest has not publicly replied to Hough’s denial.
  • Coverage notes the central wheel is a single, heavy prop and that mounting the wheel or podium is not permitted for safety and preservation.
  • Hough’s September 26 Celebrity Wheel of Fortune episode ended with a $63,350 win for Feeding America, and reports mention he celebrated by leaping onto his podium rather than the wheel.