Kaylah Walton
Jeopardy! contestant Drew Goins initially faced criticism from Taylor Swift fans when he first appeared on the show in September 2024. However, he managed to regain their favor during his recent participation in the Second Chance Tournament.
This journalist from Hawaii captured the audience’s hearts, but it was his second attempt that allowed him to make up for a blunder he made regarding a Taylor Swift clue.
The Misstep with Taylor Swift
In his debut on Jeopardy!, Goins faced a question related to Grammy winners that highlighted Taylor Swift’s historic win for her 2010 album. The clue, worth $800, was: “The first of Taylor Swift’s record 4 [album of the year] Grammys was for this album in 2010.”
Unfortunately, Goins forgot the answer, which was “Fearless,” and reacted with disbelief at his error.
This misstep sparked outrage among Swift’s loyal fanbase, many of whom expressed their frustration. Not only did Goins miss out on the $800, but he also lost the game and left with many upset Swifties.
A Chance for Redemption
When Goins returned to Jeopardy! in January 2025 for the Second Chance Tournament, host Ken Jennings couldn’t help but bring up the viral moment.
He mentioned Goins’ “encounter with some unhappy Swifties” and asked him about the aftermath.
“I got a Taylor Swift question wrong, went home worried that the Swifties would come get me, but it was just my brother, who’s here today,” Goins shared.
He explained that his brother Zach took the initiative to create a Taylor Swift-themed practice board to help him avoid repeating his earlier mistake.
“The night before filming, he had an entire practice board ready for me,” Goins said, noting that it was all about Taylor Swift.
With his brother’s insights fresh in his mind, Goins seized his opportunity to atone for the mistake. During an episode of the Second Chance Tournament, he faced another Taylor Swift-related clue: “In 2014, Taylor Swift released this album named for a different year.” Eager to get it right, Goins quickly buzzed in and answered: “What is 1989?”
The crowd erupted in applause, and Jennings confirmed, “Redemption for Drew! That is correct.” Not only did Goins gain validation with a correct answer, but he also added $200 to his score and ultimately won the game.
