VIDEO: Remember the biggest gaffe in television history? They interviewed the wrong man

Twenty years ago, a moment of mistaken identity at the BBC created a television legend. Guy Goma, a computer science graduate from Congo, was in London for a job interview at the BBC. While waiting in the lobby, he was mistakenly identified as Guy Kewney, a technology expert scheduled for a live interview about a court case involving Apple.

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As soon as I heard his name, I said to myself, 'I'm done. I'm in the wrong place.'

What followed was a masterclass in improvisation and grace under pressure. Ushered into the studio, Goma was made up and seated opposite presenter Karen Bowerman. It wasn't until Bowerman introduced him as "Guy Kewney, editor of the NewsWireless technology website" that Goma realized the gravity of the situation. "As soon as I heard his name, I said to myself, 'I'm done. I'm in the wrong place,'" Goma later recalled.

Despite the sheer panic, Goma decided to play along rather than embarrass the BBC. He delivered surprisingly coherent, albeit general, answers about the internet and technology, even mentioning "cybercafes." His quick thinking and composure in the face of an utterly unexpected situation were remarkable. He later explained that he didn't want to shame the presenter or the powerful media organization.

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I am very surprised that I was met with this verdict, because I did not expect it.

The interview, lasting only about eighty seconds, concluded with a bewildered Bowerman. Goma eventually explained the mix-up to the staff and proceeded to his actual job interview, though he did not get the position. However, the incident catapulted him to international fame, becoming one of the first truly viral moments in television history. Goma's story is a testament to his character and ability to turn a potentially disastrous situation into a memorable, even celebrated, event.

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it will be easier for everyone to get something on the internet