University Challenge: Jeremy Paxman SCOLDS Eric Monkman for 'useless answer' before defeat
ERIC MONKMAN was scolded by Jeremy Paxman during a heated round of questioning during the University Challenge grand final last night.
The University Challenge final had viewers on the edge of their seats this evening
The Wolfson College, Cambridge hopeful - who lost out on the top spot to Oxford's Balliol College - was mocked by the journalist after he gave a lacklustre answer on the academic gameshow.
Firing through the questions, Paxman began: "Traditionally regarded as a holy relic, the iron crown of Lombardy is housed…" before Monkman interjected with a rather bizarre response.
"It's housed in Italy, somewhere. It's the one they use to crown the King of Italy," he said, seemingly regretting his attempt at answering.
Stephen Hawking gives a speech to University Challenge finalists
Eric Monkman once again won over the hearts of watchers this evening
That is a completely useless answer
"I'm afraid that is a completely useless answer," Paxman hit back, before a red-faced Monkman retorted: "Yes, it is, sorry."
It came just moments before Oxford's captain Joey Goldman took the crown.
But despite his victory, it was gracious runner-up Monkman who had won the hearts of the nation as many backed him on Twitter, singing the Canadian's praises.
"What a gentleman Monkman is. He applauded the victors the second the gong hit and was magnanimous in defeat #UniversityChallenge," commended one watcher.
Jeremy Paxman left Eric red-faced after one answer blunder
Oxford's Balliol College took home the trophy during the heated finale
"Monkman is still my hero," applauded a further.
Many also flocked to the social networking site to comment on the moment Monkman beamed from ear-to-ear after meeting English theoretical physicist Stephen Hawking.
"Monkman's face at meeting Hawking is EVERYTHING #UniversityChallenge," enthused one.
Another then chimed: "MONKMAN is the happiest man alive after meeting Stephen Hawking #UniversityChallenge."