The Rev. Kevin Laskowski, a three-day champion on Jeopardy!, recently shared his inspiring journey of faith, intellect, and humanity during an interview with the Diocese of Virginia Comms Team. His appearance on the popular quiz show captured hearts and sparked meaningful conversations about the role of clergy in modern society. Here is a glimpse into the interview, where he reflected on his experience.
Q: How does someone end up on Jeopardy!? What led you to apply to appear on the show?
A: I grew up watching the show with my family during big family functions. We’d eat dinner and then gather around to watch Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy!. Occasionally, my parents would turn to me and say, “You should be on the show.” About a year ago, in a moment of late-night reflection, I decided to take the Jeopardy! Anytime Test. It was a way of honoring my dad, who I lost to cancer two years ago. To my surprise, I passed the test, then another online test, and was invited to a Zoom audition. Eventually, I got the call—a surreal moment while I was walking down the stairs at church.
Q: Was it an easy decision to wear the collar on the show?
A: Absolutely. When the producers gave advice on what to wear, one of them mentioned that my decision might be simple given my clerical attire. I felt that my clothing could do the talking for me. As a priest, I’m often not in spaces where I can explicitly talk about God, so wearing the collar was a quiet but clear statement of faith.
Q: Doing a secular show like this humanizes a priest. Would you agree? Why?
A: Definitely. First off, it’s a quiz show, so it literally shows that we don’t have all the answers. We’re not perfect; we’re going to make mistakes. It humanizes us and shows that we’re like everyone else—with interests, hopes, and dreams. For me, appearing on Jeopardy! was a dream realized on national television.
Q: How do you see this being an important tool of evangelism?
A: Trivia, in a way, can be an evangelical route. I theologize it by thinking about how curiosity allows us to participate in God’s omniscience. Knowing a historical fact, a bit of pop culture, or someone’s name—it’s all part of God’s knowing and loving. By showing curiosity and kindness, we can encourage the kind of curiosity that fosters better people.
Q: Were there any challenges during your time on the show?
A: I declined to answer a question about the King James Bible because I was afraid of being wrong. It wasn’t part of my upbringing, and I use the New Revised Standard Version now, so I hesitated. Some viewers commented on that, but others were surprised by my knowledge of rap categories, which was fun.
Q: What’s next for you after being a three-day winner and being part of the Tournament of Champions?
A: Competing in the Tournament of Champions is exciting. I hope to continue using opportunities like this to show that priests are approachable and human. Curiosity and kindness can build bridges, and if my time on Jeopardy! inspired even one person to think differently about faith or clergy, it was worth it.
The Rev. Kevin Laskowski’s journey on Jeopardy! showcased not only his intellect but also the power of representation and connection. His story serves as a reminder that faith can meet the world in unexpected places, even behind a quiz show podium.
More about Kevin: The Rev. Kevin Laskowski is priest-in-charge at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Centreville, Virginia. He was first called to the priesthood as a teenager growing up in Virginia Beach, Virginia. After college and 10 years in the philanthropic sector, he followed that call to ordained ministry. He previously served the Episcopal Church of the Holy Cross in Dunn Loring, Virginia, as assistant rector. Kevin holds a BA in Government from George Mason University and an MDiv from Virginia Theological Seminary. He enjoys card magic, industrial metal, and the fun things people put at the end of their bios.
Editor’s Note: This interview was completed before Kevin appeared in the Tournament of Champions. He did not advance to the next round.
Story by Comms Team
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