Who Wants to Be a Millionaire: Big Moments
Who Wants to Be a Millionaire has delivered some of the most intense, emotional, and unforgettable moments in game show history. Since its debut in the U.K. in 1998 and its subsequent launch in the U.S. in 1999, the show has consistently drawn viewers with its high-stakes questions, dramatic lighting, and the tantalizing promise of winning a life-changing fortune. Here are some of the biggest and most iconic moments that have defined the show's legacy across decades and continents.
John Carpenter’s Historic Win
Perhaps the most iconic moment in U.S. Millionaire history occurred in November 1999 when John Carpenter became the first contestant to win the $1 million prize. What made it unforgettable wasn’t just his flawless performance — it was his swagger. After answering every question without using a lifeline, Carpenter used his final lifeline, “Phone-a-Friend,” not for help, but to call his dad and say, “I don’t really need your help — I just wanted to let you know I’m about to win the million dollars.”
The moment became an instant cultural phenomenon and solidified the show as a game-changing format in American television.
The First UK Millionaire
Before John Carpenter, there was Judith Keppel, who in November 2000 became the first contestant in the UK version of the show to win £1 million. Her calm demeanor and encyclopedic knowledge carried her through a difficult set of questions, culminating in the final one about British monarchs. Her win was especially symbolic, as it came at a time when female quiz show champions were few and far between. It also sparked debates about class, intelligence, and gender on British television.
Charles Ingram and the Cheating Scandal
One of the most notorious “big moments” in game show history — for all the wrong reasons — occurred in the UK version in 2001. Charles Ingram, an Army major, was accused of cheating to win the £1 million prize by allegedly using coughing signals from accomplices in the audience to identify correct answers. Although he initially won the jackpot, his prize was never paid out and he was later convicted of deception.
The scandal captivated Britain and led to documentaries, books, and even a dramatized miniseries called Quiz. It remains one of the most talked-about game show incidents in history.
David Chang’s Million-Dollar Moment
Celebrity chef and restaurateur David Chang became the first celebrity to win the million-dollar prize on the U.S. revival of the show hosted by Jimmy Kimmel in 2020. Playing for Southern Smoke Foundation, a charity supporting hospitality workers affected by COVID-19, Chang took a bold gamble on the final question. With no lifelines left, he guessed correctly — and burst into tears of relief and disbelief.
The moment was lauded for its emotion, social impact, and perfect timing during a pandemic-weary year.
Doug Van Gundy: From Glory to Loss
Not all big moments are wins — some are agonizingly close calls. In 2000, Doug Van Gundy made it to the million-dollar question with all lifelines exhausted. He guessed incorrectly, dropping from $500,000 to $32,000. The question, about President Lincoln’s assassination, stumped him — and his incorrect response served as a stark reminder of the game’s brutal all-or-nothing risk structure.
His loss is frequently cited in highlight reels and retrospectives as one of the most heart-wrenching turns on the show.
Ken Basin’s Risk Gone Wrong
Another dramatic fall occurred during the celebrity edition in 2009, when Harvard-educated lawyer Ken Basin risked $475,000 on the million-dollar question — and lost. Like Van Gundy, he dropped down to the $25,000 tier after a confident but incorrect answer. His boldness and positive attitude after the loss earned him a mix of sympathy and admiration from audiences.
Tom Hoobler: The $500K Quit
Not every contestant goes for glory. In 2001, Tom Hoobler faced the million-dollar question and chose to walk away with $500,000 rather than risk a loss. The question involved an obscure art-related fact — and Hoobler’s decision was widely respected. His moment is often held up as an example of strategic thinking and knowing your limits under pressure.
Jimmy Kimmel’s Hosting Debut
When ABC revived the show in 2020 with Jimmy Kimmel as host, expectations were high. Kimmel brought wit and warmth to the role, mixing irreverent humor with genuine encouragement. His debut episode revitalized interest in the show for a new generation, particularly during COVID lockdowns when viewers were craving familiar comforts with a modern twist.
Ratings surged, and fan reception to Kimmel’s style — including frequent self-deprecating jokes — was overwhelmingly positive.
Major Format Changes
Several changes over the years have provided memorable shakeups:
- Switch to a clock-based format in later seasons added pressure and pace
- “Ask the Expert” introduced knowledgeable guests like Bill Nye and Steve Wozniak
- Progressive jackpots and celebrity tournaments added novelty
Each evolution led to fresh tension and excitement, reminding fans that even a well-worn format can still surprise.
Summary
Over the years, Who Wants to Be a Millionaire has delivered moments of triumph, heartbreak, scandal, and celebration. From the thrill of the first million-dollar win to infamous losses and global controversies, the show’s legacy is defined by its ability to keep viewers on the edge of their seats. These big moments have transcended the game board, entering popular culture and inspiring everything from memes to miniseries. And with each new contestant, there's always the chance for another unforgettable story — one final question away from history.