Photos: ‘Jeopardy!’ auditions look for contestants with intellect, poise

Image

L.E. Baskow

Potential “Jeopardy!” candidates answer warm-up questions during the audition process at the Venetian on Thursday, July 14, 2016.

Sat, Jul 16, 2016 (2 a.m.)

Jeopardy! Candidates Test

Talent staff grade written tests as potential Jeopardy! candidates are returning for a more formal testing and audition process at the Venetian on Thursday, July 14, 2016. Launch slideshow »

A group of game-show contestant hopefuls filled a room at the Sands Expo and Convention Center Thursday to answer trivia questions with the eye on the prize — earning a spot on "Jeopardy!"

Making the popular show, where answers are given first and contestants supply the answers, appears easier said than done.

Some pass a 50-question online test and are picked to advance to the next round of auditions. That’s where they are faced with more trivia and drilled on knowledge and practice on the long-running game show.

There’s no telling who will represent Las Vegas on the next season of "Jeopardy!" — if anyone. That’s the question producers were hoping to answer during regional adult auditions at the Venetian, which run through today.

In addition to locals, the group includes those from Oregon, Montana and Texas. And just being knowledgeable won’t guarantee them a spot because there are more elements that make up a great contestant for "Jeopardy!"

Senior Contestant Coordinator Glenn Kagan, who's been in the industry for more than three decades, said he looks for intellect, poise, character, excitement and other qualities.

Passing the written test gets you an opportunity to stand before scouts and interact with other potential players. Applications are held for 18 months, so the potential to play may not be immediate.

"Jeopardy!" is in its 32nd season of syndication. Judging by the crowd of hopefuls, the show’s popularity seems as strong as ever.

Here’s are some images taken by the Sun’s L.E. Baskow.

Back to top

SHARE

Join the Discussion:

Check this out for a full explanation of our conversion to the LiveFyre commenting system and instructions on how to sign up for an account.

Full comments policy