WARETOWN – A local couple sparked a social media frenzy when they proudly announced their hometown while appearing on the iconic game show “Wheel of Fortune.”
Kelly and Mike Denselbeck, a loveable couple from Waretown, won hearts (and prize money) during the show’s Sweethearts Week. Their appearance wasn’t just about solving puzzles and winning cash; it was a heartwarming display of love, humor, and local pride.
The Denselbeck’s adventure began when they received a call from the show’s producers last November to schedule an interview. Despite opting against submitting a video or photo, their application evidently resonated with the team.
Photo courtesy Kelly and Mike Denselbeck
During their initial interview, Kelly opted to veer away from the conventional “wonderful husband” spiel. Instead, she boldly declared, “We’ve been married for eight and a half years; we’re each other’s pains in the butt.” The candid and humorous approach apparently caught the attention of producers, setting them apart from the crowd.
Not knowing what to expect next, Kelly and Mike were elated to discover their unorthodox audition secured them an invitation to compete during the show’s Sweetheart Week. Their whirlwind journey took them from receiving an email confirmation on January 3rd to filming in Culver City, CA, on the 12th.
Despite the expenses falling on their shoulders, the couple saw the trip as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. They also knew that, at the very least, they’d receive $2,000 as a consolation prize to cover their trip.
Waretown residents Kelly and Mike Denselbeck competed on the Wheel of Fortune during Sweethearts Week. (Photo courtesy Wheel of Fortune)
Kelly and Mike’s journey to Culver City, California, for filming, was not without its own share of excitement outside the studio. Their trip included a dose of unexpected Hollywood drama when their sightseeing tour bus was impounded for a registration sticker issue. The adventure, however, did not dampen their spirits, and they returned home with a tale to tell.
However, the real fun came when the couple hit the stage and navigated the iconic game board, allowing both their personalities to shine. When the first puzzle clicked into place, it was because of Kelly’s impressive skills. Mike’s infectious enthusiasm had viewers cheering them on, although Kelly’s quick to mention that her jokester husband was on his best behavior.
While they didn’t make it to the final round, Kelly and Mike outdid the consolation prize – they went home with $3,000, enough to finance their trip.
“We won it,” said Kelly. “We solved puzzles and won it! I’m proud of that! It was an amazing experience.”
The couple has had plenty of time to practice for the show since their chance encounter in 2013. Kelly, a parts manager with a local car dealership, initially found Mike, the tire delivery guy, a bit rough around the edges. “I thought he was a jerk,” she confessed with a laugh, recalling their first encounter. But thanks to the persistent nudges of her coworker, she eventually warmed up to his playful charm.
Their connection blossomed quickly, leading to marriage in 2015 and a shared passion for giving back. Kelly transitioned to working at Meals on Wheels, and Mike, after retiring from the tire company, soon joined her. Their life became a testament to their unwavering support for each other, from volunteering at church to Kelly’s successful face painting business, “Daisy Doodles Face Painting.”
Kelly, originally from Manchester, can’t say enough good things about Mike, who grew up in Bordentown and was active in their fire department, ultimately serving as Chief of the Consolidated Fire Association for many years.
Although they didn’t win the big prizes, the experience itself was unforgettable. The couple also made some new friends from across the country.
“We met the sweetest people,” shared Kelly. “You wind up rooting for everyone. We were so excited to see Chris and Ashley go to the bonus round and win, and Charlie and Aronika won a trip to Hawaii.”
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