Alex Trebek on Jeopardy

Things We Saw Today: RIP Jeopardy! Host Alex Trebek

Plus Sam Neill, Stacey Abrams and more.

Recommended Videos

Jeopardy! host Alex Trebek has passed away at the age of 80, after a battle with pancreatic cancer. The television icon was beloved by audiences everywhere thanks to his 36 year tenure as the host of the popular trivia game show. His passing was announced via the official Jeopardy! Twitter account, which read “Jeopardy! is saddened to share that Alex Trebek passed away peacefully at home early this morning, surrounded by family and friends.”

Trebek, who announced his cancer diagnosis last year, said at the time, “I have lived a good life, a full life and I’m nearing the end of that life.” Over the course of his career, Trebek won five Daytime Emmy Awards for outstanding game show host, and in 2011 he received a Peabody Award for “encouraging, celebrating and rewarding knowledge.” In 2011, Trebek received a lifetime achievement award from the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences.

Trebek and Jeopardy! also hold the Guinness World Record for the most gameshow episodes hosted by the same presenter (same program) since June 13, 2014. Over 37 seasons, Trebek has hosted more than 8,200 episodes of the series. For many of us, Trebek was a comforting television staple, a familiar face and voice that has been with us for as long as we can remember. It feels impossible to imagine Jeopardy! without him.

The Ontario born Trebek was always a source of comfort and entertainment, and his commitment to education extended well beyond his hosting duties. Trebek sat on the boards of the National Geographic Society Education Foundation and the National Advisory Council for the Literary Volunteers of America, and participated in multiple charities and outreach programs throughout his life. He inspired a love of knowledge and trivia in several generations of viewers.

Many took to social media to remember Trebek:

Trebek’s final Jeopardy! episode will air Christmas day.

(via Variety, image: ABC)

  • The film adaptation of Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark is set for a sequel. (via io9)
  • Colin Firth in a zombie movie? Yeah, we’re interested. (via Deadline)
  • Let’s talk queer representation on the cult sci-fi series Dark Angel. (via Syfy Wire)
  • Sam Neill announces that Jurassic Park: Dominion has finished filming. (via Collider)
  • Stacey Abrams loves Star Trek, and we love Stacey Abrams. (via Nerdist)
  • Arg matey! Pirates storm Magic: The Gathering. (via CBR)
  • Ming-Na Wen discusses her cameo in the live-action Mulan and the 4K UHD release of the animated classic. (via /Film)
  • Slay Batwoman, slay!

Hope you’re having a restful Sunday, Sue Believers!

Want more stories like this? Become a subscriber and support the site!

The Mary Sue has a strict comment policy that forbids, but is not limited to, personal insults toward anyone, hate speech, and trolling.—


The Mary Sue is supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn a small affiliate commission. Learn more about our Affiliate Policy
Author
Image of Chelsea Steiner
Chelsea Steiner
Chelsea was born and raised in New Orleans, which explains her affinity for cheesy grits and Britney Spears. An pop culture journalist since 2012, her work has appeared on Autostraddle, AfterEllen, and more. Her beats include queer popular culture, film, television, republican clownery, and the unwavering belief that 'The Long Kiss Goodnight' is the greatest movie ever made. She currently resides in sunny Los Angeles, with her husband, 2 sons, and one poorly behaved rescue dog. She is a former roller derby girl and a black belt in Judo, so she is not to be trifled with. She loves the word “Jewess” and wishes more people used it to describe her.
twitter