Much to Answer For

The dispute over the “Twenty-One” question concerning the queens who “rule” Denmark and Sweden is very easily resolved (“ ‘Twenty One’ Contestant Disputes Answer That Cost Him the Game,” by Brian Lowry, Feb. 9).

Queen Margrethe of Denmark is the reigning queen of that country, having inherited the throne from her father. Her husband, Prince Henrik, is her consort. Sylvia, the queen of Sweden, is the queen consort, being married to the reigning monarch, King Carl XVI Gustaf. The correct answer within the dubious terminology of the question would be Denmark, although none of the reigning European monarchs is a “ruler.”

This just points up once again the idiocy of these new game shows. The questions are moronic, as are the hosts and, embarrassingly, most of the contestants. The only smart quiz shows on TV are the stalwart “Jeopardy!” and “Win Ben Stein’s Money.”

KIM RICHARD MOWREY

Los Angeles