Stephanie Jass Finishes “Jeopardy!” Run As Longest-Reigning Woman Ever

Even though she lost last night on TV’s most popular quiz show, she probably doesn’t mind too much. Stephanie Jass, a college professor from Milan, Michigan, finished her reign on Jeopardy! last night not only by taking home $147,570 but also by claiming the record as the woman with most days in a championship reign. Jass lost in her eighth appearance on the program yesterday, meaning she won seven games in a row, taking over the record set by six-time champion and Jeopardy! fan-favorite Larissa Kelly in 2008. While Kelly still earned more cash during her run, Jass still claims a very impressive achievement.

Jass was very dominant during her reigns, with over half of her games winding up in lock situations at the end of the Double Jeopardy! round, meaning as long as she wagered little to nothing, her opponents could double their scores in Final Jeopardy and still not be able to catch up to her. Unfortunately for her, that was not the situation in last night’s game as opponent Meredith Lowmaster answered correctly and overtook Jass’s score, but she did not answer correctly and fell to a losing position. Still, Jass is pleased with her outcome, personally and financially. “I’m not sure yet what to do with the winnings,” Jass said. “I mean, it’s enough that you could refinance your house… Trips for sure, maybe an electric car, braces for the kids… We’ll really have to make some interesting decisions about our finances. It’s a great place to be, I’ll tell you what.”

Stephanie Jass was a lot of fun to watch and she will almost certainly be back for the next Tournament of Champions. Congratulations to her and her family!