This is an archival story that predates current editorial management.
This archival content was written, edited, and published prior to LAist's acquisition by its current owner, Southern California Public Radio ("SCPR"). Content, such as language choice and subject matter, in archival articles therefore may not align with SCPR's current editorial standards. To learn more about those standards and why we make this distinction, please click here.
The current reigning champ on Jeopardy! is creeping people out and winning fans with his slow, awkward smile.
23-year-old Matt Jackson has already won over $230,000 during his eight-day winning streak on the game show. But besides his impressive trivia skills, the Washington, D.C.-based paralegal is captivating audiences with his unusual mannerisms—or as some might say his "comedic genius". As Jackson is introduced at the top of each show he very slowly—and somewhat creepily—transitions from a stony-faced expression to a forced, awkward smile. It happens every time, and audiences seem to be captivated. Get ready for it:
As an added bonus, Jackson also holds up his hand to indicate how many shows he's won with his fingers:
According to CBS LA, to help prepare for the show, Jackson apparently read “Brainiac" by Ken Jennings, who set the Jeopardy! record with his 74-game winning streak in 2004.
Not big on the usual chit-chat with host Alex Trebek, Jackson maintains his stoic look throughout most of the show, and seems to prefer pushing ahead with his curt, winning responses. Besides his slow-burn smiles, he also breaks his calm demeanor when he answers a particularly challenging question successfully. While slapping his fist into the palm of his hand, the champ let's forth a "Boom!" That's right, Matt, here comes the boom:
His "Boom!" catchphrase has even been treated to a remix already:
He also now has an American Horror Story intro:
And here's Matt on a roll:
