What constitutes a standout episode?
It’s not so much the show as the people. We had a blind contestant two years ago, Eddie Timanus, who would have been fairly memorable just based on his ability to play the game, but this guy is blind, wins over $70,000, goes on to theTournament of Champions and wins two cars. Amazing.
I know it’s wrong, but do you ever favor certain contestants?
There are times when I want a contestant to do well, like “Oh jeez, you’re having a bad run here. C’mon, pick it up, start doing better. Wait! She’s turning it around. Keep it going!” I’m like the parent with three kids–I can’t show favoritism.
Have you ever accidentally given away the answe… I mean question?
It’s happened a few times. It goes on the air and I look like an idiot. I just have to say, “On to the next clue.”
You don’t really bust a lot of jokes out on the show.
It’s not about me, it’s about the contestants and the game. That’s why we’ve stayed so popular. We are No. 2 in syndication. Now you’ll hear people joke “I’m sorry, you didn’t phrase that in the form of a question” or hum the “Jeopardy!” think music in situations. We’re Americana.
Do you absorb “Jeopardy!” trivia then play the smart guy at parties?
Only if I’m interested in the subject. We’ve had clues on fishing, for instance, and that is not a subject that interests me. I do not remember those facts.
What interests you?
History. Geography. Sprinkler repair. Tree pruning.
Do you think you’ll ever leave “Jeopardy!”?
I have two kids in private school, so I can’t give up my day job. I’m starting to tape again next month, so I’ll be around [sings “I’ll Be Around”]. You didn’t think you’d get a singing interview, did you?
No, it’s a bonus.
I’d call it a daily double.
