TMDb/Celebrity Wheel of Fortun Celebrity Discover why game show prizes like Wheel of Fortune's million-dollar win may not stretch as far today due to inflation and rising costs. April 24, 2026 AceShowbiz - Money has always been a central allure for contestants and viewers alike on TV game shows. The prospect of winning a life-changing amount of cash drives many to audition and compete. Shows like Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? initially captured audiences with the promise of a $1 million prize, a figure that remains an iconic milestone in game show history.