Alex Trebek, host of the Jeopardy game show for 36 years and practically synonymous with the show, has died. From Variety:
Alex Trebek, the beloved host of gameshow “Jeopardy!†since its 1984 debut in syndication, has died of pancreatic cancer. He was 80.
The official “Jeopardy!†Twitter account announced the news on Sunday morning, writing: “‘Jeopardy!’ is saddened to share that Alex Trebek passed away peacefully at home early this morning, surrounded by family and friends.â€
Trebek revealed in March 2019 that he had been diagnosed with Stage Four pancreatic cancer. “I have lived a good life, a full life and I’m nearing the end of that life,†he told USA Today in October. Sony has confirmed that “Jeopardy!†episodes hosted by Trebek will air through Dec. 25, and his last day in the studio was Oct. 29. “Jeopardy!†is not announcing plans for a new host at this time.
How fortunate he was to able to continue to keep doing what he clearly loved doing quite nearly to the very end!
Both my dad and my father-in-law died of pancreatic cancer. It makes me wonder a bit about Mr. Trebek’s medical history.
I’m going to make my prediction now: Mr. Trebek will be replaced as host on Jeopardy by Ken Jennings.
Trebek was a pretty amazing man and I agree – I’m glad he was able to do what he loved to the very end.