Welcome to season two of our podcast, where we unravel the fascinating journey of Julian Batts. At 28 years old and residing in Orlando, Julian took the Wheel of Fortune stage in 2014 during College Week, proudly representing the Indiana Hoosiers. Growing up, Wheel of Fortune was a staple in Julian's household, enjoyed during dinner time with his family. Inspired during his freshman year of college, Julian decided to apply in the fall of 2013, leading to the taping of his episode on Valentine's Day in 2014.
Julian's episode marked a significant milestone as the 6,000th show, airing in spring 2014 as the 5th episode on a Friday. Reflecting on his Wheel of Fortune experience, Julian recalls the inviting atmosphere in the makeup room, where even Vanna White surprised contestants with words of encouragement. However, the real gravity of the show hit Julian when Jim Thornton announced the arrival of Pat Sajak and Vanna White.
Despite an early triumph in solving an entire puzzle, Julian faced a viral moment when attempting to pronounce "Mythological Hero Achilles." This unforgettable mistake did not hinder him, as Julian ultimately emerged victorious. An avid Disney park enthusiast and accomplished runner, Julian has completed eight half marathons. His love for Disney extends to his role as a content creator, uniting people through their shared passion.
Wheel of Fortune provided Julian with a broader perspective on life and the realization that anything is possible. His grandfather's wise words, "You can't win if you don't play," resonated deeply, reinforcing the idea that embracing opportunities is key. Since his Wheel of Fortune triumph, Julian has expanded his game show journey to Price is Right, Tosh.O, and even the Drew Barrymore show, where he won a car during the game show episode.
Julian's advice to aspiring contestants is simple yet profound: "Have fun and be yourself." Embracing every moment, Julian emphasizes that nothing negative can come from the experience. With a total winnings of $11,700, Julian Batts' Wheel of Fortune journey is not just a game show triumph but a testament to the transformative power of embracing life's opportunities with joy and authenticity.
