2024 proved to be a whirlwind year for game shows, marked by a changing of the guard and a plethora of unforgettable contestant moments. From risqué answers to historic lows, and celebrity look-alikes to pop culture confusion, viewers were treated to a rollercoaster of emotions.

A 'Butt' of a Joke on 'Wheel of Fortune'

Tavaris Williams's infamous "right in the butt" guess, in response to a puzzle that should have read "This is the best!" quickly became a viral sensation. Williams later explained that he buzzed in before fully processing the puzzle, leading to the hilarious mishap. While his answer might not have won him the game, it certainly earned him internet fame and a story for the ages. He still walked away with a respectable $9,500.

Record Low and Famous Faces on 'Jeopardy!'

Erin Buker's appearance on "Jeopardy!" secured her a spot in the show's history, albeit not for a positive reason. Her final score of -$7,200 marked the second-lowest score ever recorded. Buker described the experience as an "out-of-body experience," attributing her performance to the pressures of live television. Despite the setback, she expressed a desire to compete again.

On a lighter note, "Jeopardy!" also saw its share of celebrity doppelgängers. Contestant David Erb caused a stir online with his resemblance to Clint Eastwood, while Father Steve Jakubowski, a Catholic priest, charmed viewers and garnered a dedicated fan base.

Seacrest's Stumbles and Swift's Stumpers

Ryan Seacrest's transition into the hosting role on "Wheel of Fortune" wasn't without its bumps. During his second night, a contestant lost a chance at a $1 million prize due to a gameplay misunderstanding, with some fans blaming Seacrest's explanation of the rules. However, others defended him, suggesting contestants should be familiar with the rules beforehand.

Even "Jeopardy!" champions were stumped by a seemingly simple clue about a Taylor Swift song. The contestants' inability to identify "Fifteen" led to humorous self-deprecation, with one remarking, "We're gonna get killed for that."

From Sexist Clues to Painful Mistakes

Ken Jennings faced criticism for a "sexist" clue referencing a Dorothy Parker poem. The clue, "Men seldom make passes at… girls who wear glasses," sparked online debate and an apology from Jennings. Meanwhile, a "Wheel of Fortune" contestant's misinterpretation of "duck-billed platypus" as "duck-filled platypus" cost her a trip to Puerto Rico, leaving viewers both amused and sympathetic.

These memorable moments, ranging from the hilarious to the cringeworthy, underscored the unpredictable nature of game shows and the human element that keeps audiences coming back for more.