S2·E171 Show #431

Episode recap

The episode identified as season 2, episode 171 of the 1984 version of Jeopardy! (show #431) presented three new challengers: Barbara Keesling, Ron Cohen and Patrick Cassidy. As with every installment of the series, the competition was hosted by Alex Trebek, with Johnny Gilbert providing the familiar opening and closing announcements. The three contestants entered the studio and took their places at the podiums, each receiving a set of buzzers that would allow them to signal when they wished to respond to the clues presented.

The program opened with the traditional Jeopardy! round, in which the board displayed six categories, each containing five clues of increasing monetary value. Contestants selected clues by naming the corresponding dollar amount and category, after which Trebek read the answer in the form of a statement. Players then attempted to phrase their responses in the form of a question, buzzing in when they believed they knew the correct phrasing. Correct responses added the clue’s value to the contestant’s score, while incorrect responses deducted the same amount and gave the remaining players an opportunity to answer.

Following the first round, the board was reset for Double Jeopardy!, featuring a second set of six categories with doubled monetary values. The same rules applied, with the added strategic element of the Daily Double hidden among the clues, allowing a contestant who located it to wager any portion of their current total before responding. The episode proceeded through this phase without deviation from the established format.

At the conclusion of Double Jeopardy! the three contestants’ scores were revealed, and the two highest‑scoring players advanced to the Final Jeopardy! round. In this final segment, Trebek presented a single clue, and the remaining contestants wrote down their responses and wagers. After the time limit expired, the correct response was revealed, and the wagers were applied to determine the final standings.

The episode concluded with Trebek announcing the winner among Barbara Keesling, Ron Cohen and Patrick Cassidy, awarding the champion the day’s prize and the customary “Jeopardy! champion” title. The broadcast adhered to the program’s long‑standing structure, showcasing the knowledge and quick recall of the three participants within the familiar, question‑answer format that defines the series.