1. Ken Jennings
Ken Jennings is undoubtedly the most famous Jeopardy game champion of all time. He holds the record for the longest winning streak in the show's history, having won 74 consecutive games. Jennings' total earnings from his time on Jeopardy are over $2.5 million, making him one of the most successful game show contestants ever.
2. James Holzhauer
James Holzhauer is another Jeopardy game champion who made headlines for his impressive winning streak. In 2019, he won 32 games in a row and earned over $2.4 million in total winnings. Holzhauer's unique strategy of going for the high-value clues first and betting aggressively on Daily Doubles made him a force to be reckoned with.
3. Brad Rutter
Brad Rutter is the highest-earning Jeopardy game contestant of all time, with total winnings of over $4.9 million. Rutter's success on the show is due in part to his expertise in certain categories, particularly in the history and literature categories. He has also won several Jeopardy tournaments, including the Ultimate Tournament of Champions.
4. Julia Collins
Julia Collins holds the record for the most consecutive wins by a female contestant on Jeopardy, having won 20 games in a row in 2014. She also holds the record for the most money won by a female contestant, with total winnings of over $428,000. Collins' success on the show is attributed to her broad knowledge base and calm demeanor under pressure.
5. Austin Rogers
Austin Rogers was a fan favorite during his time on Jeopardy in 2017. He won 12 games in a row and earned over $400,000 in total winnings. Rogers' quirky personality and quick wit made him stand out from other contestants, and he became known for his unique strategy of jumping around the board rather than going in order.
6. Arthur Chu
Arthur Chu made waves during his time on Jeopardy in 2014 with his unconventional strategy of bouncing around the board and hunting for Daily Doubles. He won 11 games in a row and earned over $298,000 in total winnings. Chu's success on the show also sparked controversy, with some viewers criticizing his tactics as unsportsmanlike.
7. Larissa Kelly
Larissa Kelly is another female Jeopardy game champion who made history during her time on the show. In 2008, she won 5 games in a row and earned over $222,000 in total winnings. Kelly's success on the show is attributed to her extensive knowledge of literature and her calm demeanor under pressure.
8. Matt Jackson
Matt Jackson was a standout contestant during his time on Jeopardy in 2015. He won 13 games in a row and earned over $411,000 in total winnings. Jackson's success on the show is attributed to his wide-ranging knowledge and his quick reflexes on the buzzer.
9. Buzzy Cohen
Buzzy Cohen was a memorable contestant during his time on Jeopardy in 2017. He won 9 games in a row and earned over $164,000 in total winnings. Cohen's success on the show is attributed to his confident demeanor and his ability to make quick comebacks when behind.
10. Arthur Fleming
Arthur Fleming was a relatively unknown contestant when he appeared on Jeopardy in 2019, but he quickly made a name for himself with his impressive knowledge and quick reflexes on the buzzer. He won 6 games in a row and earned over $150,000 in total winnings.