A teacher from Granada Hills, California...

John Genova

Do you have a favorite anecdote associated with being on the show?
I'm currently a teacher in the L.A. Unified School District. I teach English and Ancient History to sixth graders. Every day is an adventure. Over the years, I have shown the video of my Jeopardy! experience as part of my lessons. The kids love the chance to think fast, follow the rules, make "money" and beat Mr. G at his own game. It's always a treat for me see the disbelief on their faces as they flash from the screen "me" to the present "me."

Even more intriguing is the effect my experience has had on my peers. Even at this 20-year remove, word gets out. Teachers I meet for the first time greet me with, "You're a five-time undefeated champion, wow!" This is a pretty long shelf life, wouldn't you say? Some teachers weren't even born when I was on the show!

"From 1984, he was the earliest 5-time champion in the tournament. Now working as a sixth grade teacher from Granada Hills, California..."

2005 Ultimate Tournament of Champions Round 1 player: $5,000.
1985 Tournament of Champions quarterfinalist: $1,000.
Season 1 5-time champion: $50,595.