“Derek Hough’s Risky Stunt on ‘Celebrity Wheel of Fortune’ Forces New Safety Rules”

Derek Hough, renowned for his energetic performances on Dancing with the Stars, recently found himself at the center of controversy during a taping of Celebrity Wheel of Fortune.

In the September 26, 2025, episode, Hough’s exuberant behavior led to a significant safety incident that prompted immediate action from the show’s production team.

During a commercial break, Hough, known for his lively personality, climbed onto the show’s iconic 2,400-pound spinning wheel while fellow judge Bruno Tonioli pretended to spin him.

This unsanctioned stunt raised serious concerns among the crew, as the wheel is a unique and irreplaceable piece of the set.

Host Ryan Seacrest, who had taken over from Pat Sajak in 2024, was quick to address the situation, emphasizing the potential risks involved.

Seacrest recalled, “We did say, ‘Please don’t do that.

That would break it, and there’s only one of those wheels.

If that breaks, we have a real problem.

In response to the incident, Seacrest and the production team instituted a new safety protocol: “Stick to the ledge.

” This rule prohibits contestants from mounting, jumping on, or physically altering the wheel’s structure after a typical spin.

The regulation aims to ensure the safety of both the participants and the integrity of the show’s iconic set.

Despite the controversy, Hough’s appearance on the show was a success.

He competed alongside fellow Dancing with the Stars personalities Bruno Tonioli and Jenna Johnson-Chmerkovskiy, ultimately winning $63,350 for the charity Feeding America.

Seacrest, who has a longstanding personal connection with Hough—having previously dated his sister, Julianne—acknowledged the playful nature of the incident but stressed the importance of maintaining safety standards on set.

The incident has sparked discussions about the balance between entertainment and safety in live television productions.

While Hough’s spirited antics are part of his charm, the show’s producers are now more vigilant in enforcing safety protocols to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

As Celebrity Wheel of Fortune continues its sixth season, both contestants and viewers are reminded of the importance of adhering to safety guidelines to ensure a fun and secure viewing experience.