A contestant on ITV's The 1% Club has won £99,000, describing the victory as beyond his wildest dreams. Daniel O'Halloran, 24, from Rock Ferry on the Wirral, triumphed on the quiz show hosted by comedian Lee Mack, which tests logical reasoning and mathematical skills.
Daniel's mother signed him up for the programme, a family favourite. He travelled to Manchester for filming in July 2022, never expecting to win the grand prize. The show begins with 100 contestants who compete to reach the final round, where they must answer a question that only 1% of Britons can get right for a chance at the £100,000 jackpot.
Speaking to the Liverpool Echo, Daniel said he was confident about reaching the later stages but never imagined taking home that much money. He initially planned to stick to the safe limit of £10,000, supported by the audience and fellow players, but took a daring turn and opted for the question that secured the £99,000 prize. When he found his answer was correct, he said he lost control of his body, running around celebrating on stage in total shock.
Keeping his triumph a secret proved difficult. He told his grandmother and a few friends but led his parents to believe he had only won £10,000. The big reveal came when they gathered to watch his episode air. Daniel recounted their disbelief and shock, saying they said things that could not be printed in the paper. Since the broadcast, he has been recognised by locals in shops and on the streets, and he expressed gratitude to the show, his co-contestants, and Lee Mack.
Daniel plans to be sensible with his winnings, considering paying off the mortgage or saving for a house, but also intends to enjoy the money and not take it for granted.
