Rolf Benirschke

Rolf Benirschke hosted the daytime version of Wheel of Fortune from January 10 to June 30, 1989. Before hosting Wheel, Rolf was a place kicker for the San Diego Chargers from 1977 to 1986. He was named NFL Man of the year in 1983, and played a Pro Bowl that same year.

Merv Griffin selected Benirschke over several other candidates, including Jimmy Connors and Tim Brando. Benirschke had no television experience whatsoever before taking over as host; he also had little familiarity with Wheel. On his first episode, Vanna walked out first, and then introduced him. On his earliest episodes, Benirschke was visibly nervous and uncomfortable, and he is known to have forgotten rules on at least two occasions.

Benirsche is involved in a charity dealing with colitis, which he was diagnosed with while in college.