This phrase refers back to the frequent gameplay situation within the tv recreation present Wheel of Fortune the place a contestant is visibly struggling to resolve a puzzle. The host, typically Pat Sajak, will usually immediate the contestant with the phrase “What are you doing?” to encourage them to guess, fill in additional letters, or remedy the puzzle outright. This situation incessantly generates humorous pressure, significantly when the puzzle answer is comparatively apparent to viewers. Contemplate {a partially} revealed puzzle like “_ _ _ ING _ _ OOD _ _ _ E,” the place the answer “HAVING A GOOD TIME” is quickly obvious, besides to the contestant on stage.
The comedic worth and relatability of this case have elevated it to a recognizable trope inside well-liked tradition. It highlights the stress contestants face beneath the studio lights and the occasional disconnect between seemingly easy puzzles and the problem of fixing them in real-time. This recognizable situation contributes to the present’s enduring attraction, offering a shared expertise for viewers who benefit from the mixture of suspense, technique, and occasional contestant struggles. The phrase “What are you doing?” has turn out to be synonymous with this specific Wheel of Fortune expertise, representing a second of each leisure and potential frustration.