History of Matt Amodio in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: March 6, 2025

Matt Amodio is an American mathematician and Jeopardy! contestant notable for his impressive 38-game winning streak in 2021, placing him third in consecutive wins behind Ken Jennings and Amy Schneider. A PhD student in computer science at Yale University, Amodio earned $1,519,601 during his 39 appearances, making him the third millionaire contestant in regular-season Jeopardy! play. His success on the show has garnered significant attention, with his run being dubbed the "Amodio Rodeo." He ranks among the highest-earning game show contestants in American history.

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Full Timeline

December 4, 1990: Birth of Matt Amodio

On December 4, 1990, Matthew Benjamin Amodio was born. He is known as an American mathematician and game show contestant.

Others born on this day/year

2009: Graduated as valedictorian

In 2009, Amodio graduated as valedictorian of Medina High School's class.

2009: Academic Challenge contestant

In 2009, Amodio was a contestant on the quiz show Academic Challenge on WEWS, finishing in second place with his team.

2012: Graduated from The Ohio State University

In 2012, Amodio graduated from The Ohio State University with a Bachelor of Science with Honors in Actuarial Science.

January 2014: Began working at Booz Allen Hamilton

In January 2014, Amodio began working for NSA contractor Booz Allen Hamilton.

July 2015: Left Booz Allen Hamilton

In July 2015, Amodio ended his employment at Booz Allen Hamilton.

2017: Earned MS degree from University of Wisconsin

In 2017, Amodio earned a Master of Science (MS) degree in Artificial Intelligence from the University of Wisconsin – Madison.

November 2020: Alex Trebek's Death

In November 2020, long-time Jeopardy! host Alex Trebek died, leading to an interregnum with guest hosts before Amodio's winning streak.

August 11, 2021: Mike Richards Named Jeopardy Host

On August 11, 2021, Mike Richards was named the permanent host of Jeopardy!, though he was soon replaced.

October 11, 2021: Amodio defeated on Jeopardy!

On October 11, 2021, Jonathan Fisher defeated Amodio in his 39th and final game on Jeopardy!

2021: Jeopardy! Winning Streak

In 2021, Matt Amodio won 38 consecutive games on Jeopardy!, achieving the third-longest streak in the show's history and becoming the third millionaire contestant in regular-season play.