Jeopardy, for over 30 years, entertained the likes of many who tuned in every night to watch the battles of wits between contestants. It was also evident that many tuned in to see the grandfatherly figure, Alex Trebek, host the show in a calm and cool manner which he became famous for. However, on Nov. 8, 2020, Trebek passed away.
Trebek, a native Canadian, was described as a bright and curious child according to Biography.com. As he grew up, he aimed for higher standards of education which led him to eventually enroll at the University of Ottawa. Originally a Philosophy major, he switched it out for a major in Journalism instead.
Despite working in the area of journalism, Trebek came to have an interest in the field of hosting television shows while working for CBC TV. Jeopardy was not the first show he hosted, however. His first chance at hosting a show came when he earned the role for Reach for the Top,where highschool students would battle wits with each other.
Trebek eventually found himself in Hollywood, wanting to make a name for himself as many others do in search of fame and stardom. During his years there, he managed to land hosting jobs on several other tv shows such as High Roller and The $128,000 Question. His big breakthrough for hosting television shows came in 1984.
Jeopardy was set to be released during that year and ABC approached Trebek with the job. Trebek accepted and so began the nearly four decades of intelligent entertainment that aired in people’s homes. Trebek’s induction into the tv hall of fame was set from then on.
Jeopardy quickly became popular with television viewers. Viewers found the show to be educational but witty at the same time to keep it entertaining. Trebek became beloved for his humble, yet notable presence on the show.
The downward spiral of Trebek’s health began publicly in March of 2019. Heannounced on television that he was diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer. He started taking Immunotherapy treatments to fight back the progress of it, eventually switching over to chemotherapy.
Despite his deteriorating health, Trebek continued on with the work he loved to do. As the series progressed, fans could see the visual changes in Trebek as his treatment went on. He remained dedicated to the showup until the very end.
Jeopardy will continue on for the rest of the year. Whether or not a replacement will be found for Trebek or if the show will be cancelled has yet to be announced.
Headline photo: Alex Trebek became a grandfatherly like figure to many people who tuned in everyday to watch his show. Picture courtesy of ABC News.