Retired IT Analyst Makes History as Seventh £1 Million Winner on *Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?*

In a moment that has captivated quiz show fans across the UK, retired IT analyst Roman Dubowski has become the seventh contestant to win the £1 million jackpot on *Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?*. The victory, aired on ITV and hosted by Jeremy Clarkson, marks a historic achievement in the show’s 26-year history, blending intellectual prowess with a touch of literary and artistic trivia that left viewers in awe.

The Million-Pound Question: A Literary and Artistic Triumph

The final question that secured Dubowski’s victory was a masterstroke of cultural trivia, bridging literature, art, and history. The question posed was:

“Used since 1876, which trademarked logo is described in the James Joyce novel Ulysses and depicted in works by Manet and Picasso?”

• Bass Ale
• The Famous Grouse
• Coca-Cola
• Stella Artois

Dubowski’s answer—Bass Ale—was not only correct but similarly a testament to his deep knowledge of art and literature. The red triangle logo of Bass Ale, the UK’s first trademarked beer, has been a recurring motif in cultural history. It appears in Édouard Manet’s iconic painting A Bar at the Folies-Bergère, which Dubowski recalled seeing at London’s Courtauld Gallery. The logo is also referenced in James Joyce’s Ulysses, cementing its place in both artistic and literary canons.

From Tea to Triumph: Dubowski’s Journey to the Top

Dubowski’s path to the £1 million prize was anything but straightforward. The retired IT analyst, who now lives near Stockport but hails from Manchester, revealed that he had attempted to get on the show twice before finally securing his spot. His victory was the culmination of years of dedication to quizzing as a hobby, a passion that paid off in spectacular fashion.

Speaking to ITV after his win, Dubowski described the surreal experience of answering the final question. “When it came up, I thought, I think I know this straight away,” he said. “I could distinctly remember seeing the red triangle on the painting, which has always been the symbol of Bass beer.” Despite his confidence, he opted to use the 50/50 lifeline, narrowing the options to Bass Ale and Coca-Cola. “Well, I may as well go for it,” he recalled thinking before locking in his answer.

Host Jeremy Clarkson played a pivotal role in Dubowski’s strategy, offering advice that stuck with him throughout the game. “He told me that the 50/50 lifeline should be used when you’ve got an inkling that one or two of the answers are correct,” Dubowski shared. “That stayed with me, and it was the right call.”

A Win That “Didn’t Feel Real”

Dubowski’s reaction to his win was one of quiet disbelief. “It felt unreal… it didn’t feel like the real world, almost,” he said. “This isn’t where I expected to be.” The shock of the moment lingered long after the cameras stopped rolling. In an interview with the Mirror, he revealed that he celebrated his victory with a simple cup of tea, opting for a quiet evening to let the magnitude of his achievement sink in. “I didn’t get drunk. I had to have a cup of tea. I just sat in a quiet room and let it all sink in,” he said.

His initial expectations for the show were modest. “I thought I was excellent enough for a five-figure sum because I’ve seen the show so much,” he admitted. “But £1 million? That was beyond my wildest dreams.”

How Dubowski Plans to Spend His Winnings

With his £1 million prize, Dubowski has big plans for the future. His immediate priority is purchasing a latest house, a goal that reflects his practical approach to the windfall. Beyond that, he dreams of traveling, with destinations like New Zealand and South America at the top of his list. “I’ve always wanted to see more of the world,” he said, hinting at adventures to come.

Dubowski’s win also highlights the enduring appeal of *Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?*, a show that has tested the knowledge and nerve of contestants since its debut in 1998. His victory is only the seventh in the show’s history, making it a rare and celebrated milestone.

The Legacy of *Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?*

Since its launch, *Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?* has become a cultural phenomenon, blending high-stakes drama with intellectual challenge. The show’s format—15 questions, escalating in difficulty, with a series of lifelines—has inspired countless imitators and remains a benchmark for quiz shows worldwide. Dubowski’s win is a reminder of the show’s unique ability to turn ordinary people into overnight millionaires, all while testing their knowledge of history, science, art, and pop culture.

Judith Keppel, the show’s first million-pound winner in 2000, set the standard for future contestants. Since then, only six others have matched her feat, with Dubowski joining this exclusive club. His victory is a testament to the show’s enduring ability to captivate audiences and create life-changing moments.

Key Takeaways from Roman Dubowski’s Historic Win

• A Rare Achievement: Dubowski is only the seventh person to win the £1 million jackpot in the show’s 26-year history.
• A Literary and Artistic Question: The final question combined references to James Joyce’s Ulysses, Édouard Manet’s A Bar at the Folies-Bergère, and Pablo Picasso’s works, showcasing the depth of cultural knowledge required to win.
• Strategic Use of Lifelines: Dubowski’s decision to use the 50/50 lifeline on the final question was influenced by advice from host Jeremy Clarkson.
• Modest Expectations: Dubowski initially aimed for a five-figure sum, underscoring the unpredictability of the show.
• Practical Plans: His winnings will go toward a new house and travel, reflecting a grounded approach to his newfound wealth.

FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About Roman Dubowski’s Win

Who is Roman Dubowski?

Roman Dubowski is a retired IT analyst from Stockport, near Manchester, who became the seventh contestant to win the £1 million jackpot on *Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?*. He is an avid quizzer and had attempted to get on the show twice before his victory.

What was the final question that won him £1 million?

The final question was: “Used since 1876, which trademarked logo is described in the James Joyce novel Ulysses and depicted in works by Manet and Picasso?” The correct answer was Bass Ale.

How did Dubowski know the answer?

Dubowski recalled seeing Édouard Manet’s painting A Bar at the Folies-Bergère at London’s Courtauld Gallery, where the red triangle logo of Bass Ale is prominently featured. He also recognized the logo’s cultural significance from James Joyce’s Ulysses.

What are Dubowski’s plans for his winnings?

Dubowski plans to buy a new house and travel, with destinations like New Zealand and South America on his list.

How many people have won £1 million on *Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?*?

As of April 2026, only seven contestants have won the £1 million jackpot on the show, with Roman Dubowski being the latest.

What advice did Jeremy Clarkson provide Dubowski?

Clarkson advised Dubowski to use the 50/50 lifeline when he had an “inkling” that one or two of the answers were correct. Dubowski followed this advice on the final question.

The Future of Quiz Shows: Why *Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?* Still Matters

In an era dominated by streaming services and on-demand entertainment, *Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?* remains a rare example of live, unscripted television that captivates audiences. The show’s blend of intellectual challenge, high stakes, and human drama ensures its place in pop culture history. Dubowski’s win is a reminder of why quiz shows continue to resonate: they celebrate knowledge, reward perseverance, and create moments of pure, unscripted joy.

As Dubowski himself set it, “It’s one of those slow-motion things that will sink in later today.” For now, his victory stands as a testament to the power of curiosity, preparation, and a little bit of luck.