Colin Jost, known for his stellar work on Saturday Night Live, has taken on a new challenge as the host of Pop Culture Jeopardy!, which has generated a buzz since its inaugural season. The game's first-ever champion team, The Personality Hires, consisting of Emily Hogg, Zach Gozlan, and Miranda Onnen, recently shared their experiences during a special episode of the Inside Jeopardy! Podcast on March 18, 2025. The team walked away with not just a trophy but also a hefty $300,000 in prize money and the title of champions.
In the podcast, episode hosts Michael Davies and Sarah Whitcomb-Foss delved into what made the team's performance special, asking the players about their experience with Jost as a host. From their candid discussions, it was clear that the contestants were pleased with Jost's performance. "From the frontlines, what’s the review?" asked Whitcomb-Foss, leading the team to express their satisfaction.
Emily Hogg, one of the contestants, quickly responded, saying, "Great, two thumbs up." She continued with accolades for Jost, sharing, "I was skeptical because hosting this is a little different than Weekend Update, which we all know he is fabulous at. After the first episode, we were like he’s a natural. He’s great! You could tell he really loves what he’s doing." Jost's ability to connect with the contestants made a significant impact, transforming any initial skepticism into admiration.
Miranda Onnen also chimed in, noting the ease with which Jost engaged with the contestants. "He was an absolute natural, interacting with us, and making us feel relaxed enough to have fun and participate. I think the looser style of Jeopardy! made him perfect for that. 10 out of 10. No notes. A+,” reflected Onnen. It's evident that his charisma is more than just a front; it resonates deeply with those who participate.
Michael Davies, an executive producer of the Jeopardy! series, also expressed his faith in Jost's abilities: "I knew what a fan he is of Jeopardy! And he knows the show inside and out. I think that is one of the things that makes him such a good host. He is passionate. He really cares. He was nervous for all of you that you were getting to play for all of this money." This fervor for the game helped Jost make contestants feel comfortable and confident during their time on the show.
Despite the praise, fans are left wondering about the show's future as Pop Culture Jeopardy! has not yet been officially renewed for a second season. As it stands, the first season is currently available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video, allowing viewers to judge Jost's hosting skills for themselves.
The Personality Hires also gave listeners a sneak peek into their use of the prize money. Onnen shared that she intended to buy furniture for her apartment, a practical choice after such an exciting win. Hogg, on the other hand, took a more extravagant approach, stating, "The night we won, I logged on and spent more money than I’m comfortable admitting out loud on a replica of this sweater of Princess Diana’s." It's a whimsical choice that unpacks the psychological freedom often felt post-win.
Meanwhile, Gozlan spoke more playfully about his plans, revealing, "I’ve earmarked a large sum of money for 'something very stupid' and am giving myself three years to figure out what that is before going to an arcade and buying 5,000 of those one-ticket plastic spider rings." One cannot deny the mix of seriousness and absurdity that emerges from such a hefty win.
As for the casting of Jost, mixed reviews emerged alongside the glowing ones. Some expressed initial doubts, but overwhelming positivity unfolded as audiences realized his natural fit for the show. Going forward, there's plenty of anticipation surrounding whether Jost will reprise his role as host should the spinoff continue beyond this first season.
Further discussions on the Inside Jeopardy! Podcast reflect the subtle changes that accompany new iterations of classic formats. The Personality Hires reiterated that Jost not only quelled their nerves but helped them enjoy the competition. As Davies points out, his track record with Jeopardy! and his dedication to its essence made him an ideal choice.
With positive momentum and engaging content, the community surrounding Pop Culture Jeopardy! is waiting with bated breath for further announcements. Regardless of whether the show gets renewed, its first foray into blending pop culture and trivia could set the stage for future explorations in the format. As the first winners, The Personality Hires will surely retain a special place in Jeopardy! history, regardless of what lies ahead.
Colin Jost's journey as the host of Pop Culture Jeopardy! has showcased his versatility beyond the usual confines of a traditional comedy setting. As the echo of the cast's laughter and applause still rings, the passion Jost brings to the screen invites viewers to stay tuned for more compelling moments, wherever the show may lead.
