Tense ‘Jeopardy!’ Match Hinges on Final Question
The December 9 episode of Jeopardy! featured an intense competition that concluded with a thrilling final question. Will Riley returned to defend his title after winning his previous match against Ron LaLonde. Entering this game, Riley had accumulated $16,801.
Contestants and Initial Performance
Riley faced Jenna LaFleur from Washington D.C. and Steve Riddell from Euless, Texas. The first half showcased a fierce contest primarily between Riley and Riddell, a business manager.
- Will Riley: $16,801 (prior earnings)
- Jenna LaFleur: Freelancer
- Steve Riddell: Business Manager
After the first 15 clues, Riley took the lead. LaFleur, however, found the Daily Double on clue 18, wagering $2,400. The clue in the category “That’s Probably Illegal” pertained to bootlegging. LaFleur responded correctly, boosting her score to $4,800 and putting her in the lead.
Scores Before Double Jeopardy
- Jenna LaFleur: $7,600
- Will Riley: $5,400
- Steve Riddell: $4,400
The Double Jeopardy Round
As the game progressed to Double Jeopardy, Riley quickly regained traction by finding the first Daily Double on clue six. He correctly answered a clue about the eruption of Mount Pelée in 1902, staking $6,200 and doubling his score to $12,400.
LaFleur’s fortunes fluctuated after she also encountered a Daily Double but answered incorrectly, losing $2,000. The round shaped up as a tight race for first place between Riley and LaFleur.
Final Jeopardy Showdown
Heading into Final Jeopardy, Riley led with $19,600, while LaFleur closely followed with $14,400. Riddell trailed with $9,200.
The Final Jeopardy category was “Legends.” The question posed to contestants was regarding Robert Bruce and a significant Scottish symbol. Only Riley responded correctly with “What is the Blarney Stone?”
Final Scores
- Will Riley: Wagered $9,201, Total: $28,801
- Jenna LaFleur: Wagered $5,201, Total: $9,199
- Steve Riddell: Wagered all, Total: $0
Riley’s victory granted him a two-day total of $28,801, securing a spot in the next episode of Jeopard!. Fans can catch the show on weekdays and stream it the following day on Hulu and Peacock.
