Aine McMenamin, a 26-year-old classics teacher from Norwich, has advanced to the semi-finals of Mastermind after showcasing her extensive knowledge of pop sensation Taylor Swift.
Despite feeling a “jolt of worry” knowing her pupils would be watching, McMenamin confidently tackled her specialist subject on Monday’s episode, securing a total of 19 points.
Originally from London, McMenamin, a devoted Swift fan, went the extra mile to prepare—immersing herself in the Eras Tour film, studying lyrics, and analyzing Swift’s biographies.
“I really wanted to pick something different from classics, so I could have something else going on,” she explained.
McMenamin, who has taught at Norwich High School for Girls for three years, described the recording experience as “nerve-wracking,” recalling childhood memories of watching Mastermind, which she once dubbed The Scary Chair Show.
A particularly fitting question about Swift’s song Mastermind nearly threw her off but ultimately contributed to her strong score.
As a general knowledge club leader at her school, McMenamin was especially relieved to answer a classics-related question correctly, ensuring she wouldn’t face embarrassment in front of her students.
“When they asked about the Greek word, I felt a jolt of worry,” she admitted. “But from the etymology clues, I managed to work it out.”
The quiz enthusiast, who previously competed on University Challenge, is currently on a half-term holiday in Spain but has been overwhelmed by supportive messages from colleagues and students after her win.
While she remains tight-lipped about her semi-final specialist subject, she hinted it would be “more highbrow.”
McMenamin is one of 96 contestants competing in the latest season of Mastermind, which has been running for 52 years and is hosted by Clive Myrie.
If she wins, she will take home the coveted Mastermind glass bowl—proving that both classics and pop culture expertise can go hand in hand.
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