For the first time in more than three decades, Wheel of Fortune will be temporarily replacing Vanna White amid tense contract negotiations. White, who has been a part of the show since 1982, reportedly contracted COVID in late July while Wheel was filming its annual “Teachers Week” block, slated to air in October.
In her absence, Puck News reports that producers tapped California-based “Teacher of the Year” contestant, Jeannie White, to fill in for White. Jeannie White, who is not related to Vanna, will be taking over the role of letter turner for the duration of the “Teachers Week” block.
The move comes as Vanna White and Wheel of Fortune producers are in the midst of tense contract negotiations. White’s current contract is set to expire in 2021, and the two sides have yet to reach an agreement on a new deal.
The show’s executive producer, Harry Friedman, released a statement saying, “We are thrilled to have Jeannie White join us for ‘Teachers Week’ and we wish Vanna a speedy recovery. We look forward to welcoming her back to the show soon.”
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