James Holzhauer Responds to ‘Jeopardy!’ Conspiracy Theories Following Loss

Holzhauer s run ends with nearly $2.5 million in earnings. He answered at a stunning 97 percent accuracy rate.

Holzhauer seemingly cracked the code to the syndicated classic gameshow by utilizing the Forrest Bounce, a strategy where one jumps around the board in order to keep their opponents off their toes, and to search out the Double Jeopardy clues.

However, Ken Jennings remains the show s all-time winnings leader in regular-season play with $2,520,700 – a mere $58,484 more than Holzhauer.

Taxing Game

Holzhauer returns to Las Vegas with the keys to the city and newfound fame. He will also need to meet with a skilled tax expert.

According to CNBC, after federal and California state taxes (where the show is taped), Holzhauer s net winnings will be around $1.29 million – a nearly 47 percent cut.

Gameshow winnings are considered ordinary income by the IRS, meaning they are taxed up to 37 percent.