Reasonably Optimistic The meaning of ‘Jeopardy!’ in a post-truth America
Sep 24, 2024
Amanda Ripley, a contributing columnist, joins former 'Jeopardy!' contestants Alexandra Petri, Drew Goins, and Ryan Vogt to discuss the show's cultural significance. They reflect on how 'Jeopardy!' has stood the test of time in a 'post-truth' America, emphasizing the importance of knowledge and community. The guests share behind-the-scenes anecdotes, the psychological pressures of competition, and the show's role in fostering intergenerational connections. With humor and nostalgia, they explore what makes 'Jeopardy!' a beloved staple in American homes.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
How Contestant Anecdotes Are Chosen
- Drew Goins described how contestants submit ~70 prompts and producers pick five anecdotes for the host to ask about.
- Ryan Vogt recalled Trebek-era on-the-spot cards and a producer predicting which dramatic story Alex Trebek would choose.
Near-Runover Story Made The Cut
- Ryan Vogt recounted nearly being run over as an infant and that Alex Trebek simply said "that's a hell of a story."
- The producer had already spotted that dramatic anecdote when Ryan wrote it down in the green room.
Perturbed Squirrel Moment
- Alexandra Petri remembered being on the show in 2006 and awkwardly presenting her high-school humor magazine, The Perturbed Squirrel.
- She felt she didn't impress Trebek and experienced the taping as a blur.