In a hilariously cruel twist of fate on the show’s New Year’s Day episode, one contestant, Nick, chimed in quickly when the following clue popped up: “A song by Coolio from ‘Dangerous Minds’ goes back in time to become a 1667 John Milton classic.” Referring to the book Paradise Lost and the track “Gangsta’s Paradise,” Nick responded with the seemingly correct answer: “Gangster’s Paradise Lost.” He was, initially, awarded accordingly. Yet unfortunately, in the minds of the all-powerful Jeopardy! judges, Nick’s pronunciation wasn’t quite up to par. A few minutes after calling the answer correct, host Alex Trebek was forced to retract Nick’s win in typically deadpan fashion.
“Our judges have re-evaluated one of your responses a few minutes ago, Nick,” Trebek began before proceeding to brutally burn the contestant. “You said gangster’s instead of gangsta’s on that song by Coolio, so we take $3,200 away from you. You are now in second place.” Nick’s face through the whole ordeal, from elation to devastation, is a sight to behold.
