Retired IT Analyst Becomes Seventh UK Winner of £1 Million on Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?

Roman Dubowski, a retired IT analyst from Greater Manchester, has become the seventh person to win the £1 million jackpot on the ITV game show Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?. His victory came after correctly answering the final question about a trademarked logo referenced in James Joyce’s novel Ulysses and depicted in works by Édouard Manet and Pablo Picasso.

How Roman Dubowski Won the Million

Dubowski, who had applied to appear on the show three times over two decades, said he was initially aiming for a five-figure sum. Despite using several lifelines early in the game, he remained composed and relied on logic and experience to progress through the rounds. When he reached the final question, he recalled seeing Édouard Manet’s painting A Bar at the Folies-Bergère at The Courtauld Gallery in London and remembered the red triangle symbol associated with Bass Ale.

The 15th and final question asked: “Used since 1876, which trademarked logo is described in the James Joyce novel Ulysses and depicted in works by Manet and Picasso?” With the options narrowed to Bass Ale and Coca-Cola after using the 50/50 lifeline, Dubowski selected Bass Ale, securing the £1 million prize.

Reaction and Plans for the Prize Money

Following his win, Dubowski described the moment as “unreal” and said he needed to have a cup of tea to let it sink in. He emphasized that while the prize is life-changing, he does not want it to change who he is. The money will remove financial stress and he plans to use it to buy a new house and travel, including visits to New Zealand and South America.

He also reflected on the significance of simply appearing on the show, stating that getting onto the programme had already felt like a victory after years of trying.

Context of the Win

Dubowski is the seventh UK contestant to win the top prize on Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?. Five previous winners achieved the feat during the era of original host Chris Tarrant, while Donald Fear was the first to do so under the current host, Jeremy Clarkson, in 2020. Dubowski’s win marks the second under Clarkson’s hosting.

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