Yorkville Man Wins $12,950 on 'Wheel of Fortune'

Judging from the cheers and shouts (and a few boos) directed at ’s big screen television Tuesday night, one might have guessed they were watching an important sporting event.

But, no.

About 50 people gathered to watch Yorkville resident Tim Freeman, 30, win $12,950 on Wheel of Fortune. Freeman and his wife, Jenny went to Los Angeles in December to tape his appearance on the popular game show but couldn’t reveal his winnings until after the show aired.

Jenny Freeman, 29, was able to watch her husband in the audience while he competed, although she couldn’t communicate with him. But watching the episode Tuesday was still a little surreal.

“Even though I saw him in person, it’s weird to see him on television,” she said.

Nothing in the studio is as large as is appears on television, said Jenny Freeman, who organized the gathering at Rosati’s for her husband.

“The wheel is tiny; everything is tiny,” she said.

Throughout the episode, Tim Freeman provided a running commentary for his friends and fans at Rosati’s.

He correctly guessed the first puzzle (Will and Jada Pinkett Smith) and told onlookers he had guessed much of another puzzle before another contestant ultimately answered it. That “Before and After” puzzle was: Rapunzel, Rapunzel, let down your hair extensions.

Tim Freeman worried bigger news might have ruined his television debut.

“We were worried the election would bump us out,” he said.

His friends and family, however, got to watch him win another (somewhat ironic) puzzle: “Winning the lottery.”

What is he going to do with what’s left of his winnings after taxes?

“Save it for a new house,” Tim Freeman said.

Apparently, home has become a little crowded with their sons, 3-year-old Joe and 1-year old William, so they are looking to grow into a bigger house.