It was 1984 when my obsession with Jeopardy was born. I was a spacey 14-year-old girl who wore high-wasted polyester pants and thought Almonzo on Little House was “dreamy”. One evening I noticed my father and older brother yelling random things at the TV.
“Who is Mark David Chapman?”
“What is the Slinky?”
“What is Lake Titicaca?”
I settled down in my pink bean bag chair and watched transfixed at the smooth-talking man with an enigmatic mustache who knew all the answers (or questions). From then on, I made it my mission to absorb each and every bit of useless trivia just so I could crush my brother in the Final Jeopardy round. Never happened, but it wasn’t for lack of trying.
Decades went by and something happened along the way. I started to answer (or question…goddamn that’s confusing) correctly for most categories, especially final jeopardy. Granted, no one besides the cat was usually in the living room to witness me yelling out random things in a ridiculously smug way. But I knew. I knew I was Jeopardy material. Admit it, there is nothing in this crazy world sweeter than knowing the final jeopardy answer when none of the supposedly brilliant contestants did.
Then along came this dude.
Jeopardy James! He was quick, strategic and dammit, he knew EVERYTHING!
It was a thrill to watch him every night. Why, some nights, even my cat Mr. Wankers took notice.
Not only did he bet big when it counted, he also made sure the amount he bet had some kind of significant meaning like birthdays, anniversaries, or future dates he would pulverize into dust the dreams of yet another poor Jeopardy co-contestant.
Just like SNL’s solidly funny skits from the past, all good things must come to an end. Jeopardy James lost a game. Some say he threw the game, because well, naturally winning millions of dollars has got to be taxing at some point, right?
The good news for all you geeky Jeopardy fans– he’s coming back for the Tournament of Champions in November. Huzzah! In preparation, I’ve read up on all facts related to Lake Titicaca. Wish me and Mr. Wankers luck!
She's A Maineiac 
What is “great story!” I’ll have “fun authors” for 1000, Alex!
I watched most of Jame’s games but not the one that he lost. I was amazed by him but ready for another champion. I hope to see the “Jeopardy of Champions”!
My guess is the Jeopardy of Champions might be boring if he just keeps on winning that as well!
I must say I was tired of him winning. It was becoming pointless for his competitor to even be there
I too am a Jeopardy fan and hubby and I watched James as well. I must admit I was ready for someone new after he won for so long. I’m not fast enough though to ever think I’d make it on to the actual show but I try to answer some questions!
I hear you, Tar. I could never actually be on the show. Mostly because I’m not smart enough or know enough random trivia about Lake Titicaca. I know two people in real life who have been on Jeopardy though. One of them was on there twice so that is my brush with Jeopardy!
I wonder what is Mr Wankers favorite category.
He would probably find the daily double in Purina.
Great post. Entertaining,
Mr. Wankers favorite categories are: “Are You Kitten Me?”, “Catnip Potpourri” and “Of Mice and Cats”.
I also like Jeopardy it’s a great show but hubby says he doesn’t understand the show
Hmm…my hubby doesn’t like the show either. Which is why my viewing partner is always Mr. Wankers.
Wow! 32 victories and almost 2 and a half million dollars. I see what you mean by insanely good!
I know! I honestly thought he might never lose and just keep playing forever…