Bessemer Man Achieves 30-Year Jeopardy! Dream, Becoming Champion
Dargan Ware, a resident of Bessemer, has turned a lifelong dream into reality by competing on the iconic game show Jeopardy!. A journey that began at just 12 years old culminated in a thrilling experience on national television.
Bessemer Resident Fulfills 30-Year Jeopardy! Dream
At the age of 49, Ware finally achieved his aspiration after nearly three decades of perseverance. “It was a wonderful experience, a lot of fun,” he stated, reflecting on his recent participation in Jeopardy!’s championship episode, where past champions compete head-to-head.
Early Influences and Education
From a young age, Ware’s love for knowledge was nurtured by his grandmother, who paid him to read encyclopedias. Growing up as the child of a National Park Service member, he moved frequently, spending time from Arkansas to Alaska. No matter where he lived, his passion for trivia remained strong.
At 15, he decided that he wanted to compete on Jeopardy!. Ware participated in quiz bowls and local trivia events throughout school. His first attempt to audition for the show was in 1996 while studying at the University of Arkansas. He traveled from Fayetteville to New Orleans, vying for a collegiate spot on the show.
A Diverse Career Path
- Obtained a bachelor’s degree in medieval history
- Passed the LSAT and attended the University of Alabama
- Graduated in the top 5% of his law school class
- Completed a federal court clerkship
Despite his legal career, Ware never lost sight of his Jeopardy! goal. Over the years, he attempted the test to become a contestant 25 times, earning invitations for interviews six times. However, he faced repeated setbacks, wondering if he’d ever get selected.
The Long-Awaited Call
After 30 years of trying, the long-anticipated call finally arrived, inviting him to compete in Jeopardy! Ware prepared extensively by studying the show’s archives, rewatching episodes, and practicing with friends. In September 2025, he filmed his first competition in Los Angeles, where he won two games and took home $47,801.
The culmination of his efforts aired in October. He was later invited to compete in the championship episode against previous winners. In a stunning debut, Ware dominated the first round, earning $3,200. However, after an overconfident performance in subsequent rounds, he ultimately finished with $2,200.
Reflecting on the Experience
Despite finishing behind competitor Stella Trout, who won with $26,401, Ware expressed gratitude for the opportunity. “I really, really did enjoy it,” he said, emphasizing the thrill of participating in Jeopardy!.
Ware now wears many hats including being a consumer protection lawyer with Davis and Norris, president of the Alabama State Poetry Society, novelist, and Jeopardy! participant. He plans to use his winnings to publish his upcoming novel titled The Legacy of Colgan Toomey, a sequel to The Legend of Colgan Toomey.
“If they would let me do it, I would play Jeopardy! for a living,” Ware remarked, encouraging others to pursue their dreams. His journey is a testament to the power of persistence and passion.
