Alex Trebek, the beloved long-time host of the popular game show “Jeopardy!” has passed away after a long battle with pancreatic cancer. Trebek was 80 years old and passed away peacefully surrounded by those he loved.
“Jeopardy is saddened to share that Alex Trebek passed away peacefully at home early this morning, surrounded by family and friends,” a spokesperson for the show said.
Jeopardy! is saddened to share that Alex Trebek passed away peacefully at home early this morning, surrounded by family and friends. Thank you, Alex. pic.twitter.com/Yk2a90CHIM
— Jeopardy! (@Jeopardy) November 8, 2020
Despite his diagnosis with stage 4 pancreatic cancer back in March of 2019, he continued to host his show with same wit and energy as he had when he began hosting in 1984.
Trebek was very open about his struggle the entire time, even sharing his stories of depression with his fans.
Alex continued to host “Jeopardy!” into his 37th season earlier this year, and also hosted the ‘Greatest of All Time’ tournament on prime-time television.
Alex Trabek was not only an entertainment legend but also an inspiration to many who shared his struggle. His message of hope and positivity will live on long after his lifetime. Rest In Peace pic.twitter.com/dClRndVWrx
— NYSL Bobby (@RealBobbyPlays) November 8, 2020
“Jeopardy!” says that episodes hosted by Trebek will air through December 25th of 2020. His last day taping in the studio was October 29, just over a week before his death.
The shows executive producer, Mike Richards, said in a statement that, “Working beside him for the past year and a half as he heroically continued to host “Jeopardy!” was an incredible honor. His belief in the importance of the show and his willingness to push himself to perform at the highest level was the most inspiring demonstration of courage I have ever seen.”
BREAKING: Jeopardy! says it "is saddened to share that Alex Trebek passed away peacefully at home early this morning, surrounded by family and friends." pic.twitter.com/YCBZye4x7k
— MSNBC (@MSNBC) November 8, 2020
Alex started his career on the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation in 1961 announcing the news, and quickly gained fame after hosting the high school quiz show, “Reach for the Top.”
His first major appearance on network television was an NBC show called “The Wizard of Odds,” which launched a career in numerous other game shows, including High Rollers, Double Dare, Battlestars, Classic Concentration, and To Tell the Truth.
For his work on Jeopardy!, Trebek received 31 nominations for the Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Game Show Host, winning 7 times.
