We've all been there: you're asked a question at a special event or work presentation; you have to say something, think fast, say anything So you blurt out the first thing that comes in to your head, which turns out to be something idiotic, embarrassing, or just plain wrong. So, imagine how much more intense that sense of panic must be if you are on a TV quiz show, under the bright lights, with a camera pointing at you and the studio audience giggling at your discomfort. Or live on the radio, with your foolish words being broadcast to everyone you know ...
Like the contestant who, asked "Which member of the crow family native to the UK has a bare face?" answered "Russell."