Pop Culture Jeopardy!: Season 1 – Review

New episodes of Pop Culture Jeopardy! premiere Wednesdays on Prime Video.

By Elazar Abrahams

Prime Video’s Pop Culture Jeopardy! is a delightful twist on the iconic game show format, injecting it with the fun and familiarity of bar trivia while keeping the competitive spirit intact. Hosted by Colin Jost, these half hour episodes are perfect for casual viewing and an absolute must-watch for pop culture enthusiasts.

What makes this spinoff shine is its ability to balance the traditional elements of Jeopardy! with a more relaxed, engaging vibe. The trivia focuses entirely on movies, TV, memes, and other pop culture staples, making it much more accessible than the brain-busting original. While some may wish for a bit more difficulty in the questions, the lighter tone recreates the feeling of trivia night at the bar with friends.

While the finalists might walk away with some cash, Colin Jost is the big winner here. As host, he nails the balance between straight-laced professionalism and witty banter. His humor never feels forced and adds to the fun, making him an integral part of the show’s charm. It’s a refreshing contrast to Travis Kelce’s emcee skills on Are You Smarter Than a Celebrity?, where the NFL star felt like a drag on the experience. Jost, on the other hand, elevates this soundstage.

One of the key differences from the traditional Jeopardy! is the team-based format. Instead of individual contestants, the game features three teams of three players each, competing in a knockout-style round. While this adds a unique dynamic and allows for a broader knowledge base, it also lowers the stakes. With three people per team, it’s harder for contestants to miss answers, which takes away some of the nail-biting tension that comes from solo competition.

Despite those minor critiques, Pop Culture Jeopardy! is an absolute blast. It’s a breezy, well-paced show that’s easy to binge and offers plenty of chuckles along the way. If you’re a fan of trivia, this is a worthy addition to your watchlist.

I give Pop Culture Jeopardy! an A-.