“That’s who I want to look like” - Jeopardy! Masters star Isaac Hirsch reveals inspiration behind his throwback look 

Jeopardy! Masters contestant Isaac Hirsch has captured fans' attention with more than just his quick wit and game show prowess. The Burbank native's distinctive retro style has become a talking point across social media, earning praise for bringing vintage flair to the quiz show stage.

During a recent Jeopardy! Masters quarterfinals match against Roger Craig and Juveria Zaheer, host Ken Jennings took time to explore what drives Hirsch's fashion choices. The conversation revealed an unexpected source of inspiration from classic television.

"For the '70s stuff, I started getting into it because of Columbo, maybe. I think we've discussed: Robert Culp on Columbo. Style icon. That's who I want to look like at all times," Hirsch explained.

The admission offers insight into how one contestant's admiration for a television legend from decades past has shaped his on-screen presence. Hirsch's commitment to his aesthetic extends beyond mere costume choice – it represents a deliberate homage to an era of television sophistication that resonates with viewers today.

Who is Robert Culp and why does Jeopardy! Masters’ Isaac Hirsch dress like him?

Robert Culp wasn’t just a staple of classic TV—he was the kind of guy who made a sport coat look like a superpower. From I Spy with Bill Cosby to The Greatest American Hero and even Everybody Loves Raymond, Culp’s résumé was stacked. But it was his turns on Columbo that really dialed up the charm.

Whether plotting the perfect murder or just sipping scotch with suspicious confidence, Culp's characters had a signature swagger, complete with razor-sharp suits, loud prints, and that effortlessly polished '70s flair that made even detective work look dapper.

The influence goes beyond surface-level imitation. Jeopardy! Masters' Hirsch has successfully channeled that classic aesthetic while making it his own, proving that vintage style can feel fresh and relevant decades later.

Hirsch's dedication to his throwback look comes with real-world challenges. He admits to strategic wardrobe planning, particularly around dining situations.

"I might, if I'm not eating that day. If I'm going out to eat, I will probably be wearing regular clothes so to not spill on the goods," he revealed.

This practical approach shows how seriously he takes maintaining his signature style. The comment also highlights the investment – both financial and emotional – that goes into curating such a distinctive look.

What does Jeopardy! Masters host Ken Jennings think?

Host Ken Jennings offered his own take on Hirsch's aesthetic, suggesting he looks perfectly suited for "a 1970s children's TV host." The observation captures how effectively Hirsch has embodied the era's television persona.

The comment also reflects how Hirsch's style transcends mere fashion choice – it evokes an entire era of television presentation and personality.

While Jeopardy! Masters has featured its share of competitive personalities and strategic gameplay, Hirsch's approach stands out for different reasons. His style choices represent a unique form of self-expression within the game show format.

The attention to his appearance demonstrates how contestants can make their mark through more than just correct responses. In Hirsch's case, his Robert Culp-inspired look has become part of his television identity on Jeopardy! Masters, showing that sometimes the most memorable game show moments happen between questions.

Trending

You can watch Jeopardy! Masters Season 3 on ABC every Tuesday and Wednesday at 9/8c, with episodes available for streaming the next day on Hulu.

×

Was this article helpful?

Thank You for feedback