Roman Dubowski, a retired IT analyst, has become the seventh contestant to win the £1 million jackpot on ITV's Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?. He credits part of his success to advice from host Jeremy Clarkson and a specific reference book.
The Winning Journey
Dubowski navigated questions on Saturn's rings, sea creatures, and the Black Death to reach the final question. He stumbled only once, when he could not recall the main ingredient of mayonnaise, prompting him to use the audience lifeline. He attributes his victory to The A to Z of Everything: A Compendium of General Knowledge by Trevor Montague, calling it 'very good' and essential reading for potential contestants.
Clarkson's Crucial Tip
Before the show, Clarkson advised Dubowski on using the 50/50 lifeline: 'Only use it if you have an inkling that one answer is right; don't use it when you have no idea at all, or you'll be left with two you don't know.' Dubowski followed this advice but still used 50/50 on the million-pound question, explaining, 'I knew the answer.' He praised Clarkson's hosting, despite past criticism of the 'Ask the Host' lifeline.
Strategy and Composure
Dubowski emphasised staying calm and not rushing. 'One of my strategies was to stay calm and not rush, to speak slowly and think things through rather than jump at an answer. But I knew all of the final five questions,' he said. He applied twice before being selected and now aims to win BBC Radio 4's Brain of Britain, having reached only the semi-final previously.
Future Plans
Dubowski intends to let his win sink in but may return for another attempt. Meanwhile, he continues his pub quiz league, noting the final is on Thursday but he won't be playing for money. The Stockport native plans to spend his winnings on experiences like travel to South America or New Zealand, and a new house with a driveway to avoid parking on the road.
