Seamus McElhinney was a legend as the most intelligent man in
Ireland. He had topped such shows as
Larry Gogan's "
Just a Minute Quiz" and
Bunny Carr's "
Quicksilver" for many years.
So the
Irish board of
Mensa suggested that he should enter into the regional heats for
Mastermind on the
BBC. He did, and won a place.
On the evening of the competition, Seamus entered from the crowd and placed himself on the famous
Leather Seat and made himself comfortable.
The lights dimmed and a spotlight pointed at his face.
Magnus Magnusson said: "
Seamus, What Subject are you studying?" "
Irish History", Seamus replied. "Very well", said Magnusson, " Your specialist subject is Irish History, Starting NOW.
In what year did the '
Easter Rising' take Place?" Seamus responds.. "Pass" "OK", says Magnusson,
"Who was the Leader of the Easter Rising?" Seamus responds .. " Pass " "OK", says Magnusson,
"How long did the Easter Rising Last?" Seamus responds.."Pass"
Instantly, a voice shouts from the crowd," Good man Seamus.... Tell the fucking
English nothing.... "