Viewers of the long-running quiz show “Jeopardy!” expressed frustration following the Monday, October 7, 2024 episode after none of the three contestants managed to answer what many considered an “easy” “Final Jeopardy!” question.
The episode, hosted by Ken Jennings, saw contestant Mark Fitzpatrick leading with $23,000, while Daniel Gately and Amanda Prusila had much smaller totals at $4,200 and $600, respectively. As the final round commenced, the “Final Jeopardy!” clue appeared under the category “Brand Names,” sparking immediate reactions from fans.
The clue read: “In 1886, this brand’s bookkeeper came up with its name & flowing script logo, saying, ‘The two Cs would look well in advertising.’” Despite some deliberation, none of the contestants could come up with the correct response, which was revealed to be Coca-Cola.
Fitzpatrick, who had dominated the game, wagered $3,400 but incorrectly answered “Coco Chanel,” dropping his final score to $20,000. Prusila also guessed “Coco Chanel” but bet $0, while Gately, who also wagered $0, provided the wrong guess of “Currier,” leaving him with $4,200.
Viewers quickly took to social media platforms to share their disbelief. One fan expressed frustration, writing, “I immediately knew it when it came up. So annoyed with the contestants!” Others echoed the sentiment, with another adding, “It is mind-boggling that all three did not get that one correct. Probably the easiest FJ question in a very long time.”
Despite the uproar, not all fans were critical. A few admitted that they, too, found the clue challenging. One viewer posted, “I didn’t get it either. I don’t think it should have been considered an easy one.” While opinions varied, the episode certainly sparked a lively conversation online, with some fans left feeling vindicated in their trivia skills.
This follows a recent stir among “Jeopardy!” fans after an unannounced schedule change prevented last week’s episode from airing on time. Some fans, who had eagerly tuned in, were left disappointed and voiced their frustration online.
The Coca-Cola brand originated in 1886 and was initially named for two of its original ingredients: coca leaves and kola nuts. The flowing script logo, now instantly recognizable, was designed by Coca-Cola’s bookkeeper, Frank Robinson. He believed the two “Cs” would look good in advertising, a theory that certainly stood the test of time. The brand has since become one of the most iconic global symbols, sold in over 200 countries worldwide.
While Monday’s “Jeopardy!” contestants were unable to correctly identify the world-famous brand, their incorrect responses have only added to the animated conversation surrounding the game.