This Canadian-American game show icon hosted Jeopardy for more than 36 years and will be greatly missed. Who is: Alex Trebek.
Yesterday, Jeopardy producers confirmed on social media and with a press release that long-time host Alex Trebek had “passed away at home … surrounded by family and friends” following a battle with stage 4 pancreatic cancer. He was 80 years old.
Trebek initially announced his cancer diagnosis in a video last March. He went on to continue filming the show and, according to a press release, episodes hosted by Trebek will continue to air until Dec. 25. His last day in the studio was Oct. 29, and the show is not announcing plans for a new host at this time.
Last night, 20/20 aired a special hour-long broadcast, Alex Trebek Remembered, which followed his life and legacy. The special features candid interviews with Trebek and his loved ones, conducted by Michael Strahan, T.J. Holmes, and Robin Roberts. If you missed the 20/20 episode when it premiered last night, you can stream it today on Hulu.
Following the news of Trebek’s death, many former contestants, public figures, and celebrities posted tributes to the popular host on social media. Here are some of the touching messages that they shared:
Ken Jennings
Alex wasn’t just the best ever at what he did. He was also a lovely and deeply decent man, and I’m grateful for every minute I got to spend with him. pic.twitter.com/CdHCcbqmp2
— Ken Jennings (@KenJennings) November 8, 2020
Neil deGrasse Tyson
Big Sean
Who is, Alex Trebek! RIP 🙏🏾💙😪 pic.twitter.com/HCpVxrEuan
— Sean Don (@BigSean) November 9, 2020
Last Week Tonight
When we needed someone everyone likes and trusts for our piece on conspiracies this summer, we knew the perfect choice was Alex Trebek, who was every bit as kind and generous with his time as you would hope. https://t.co/ZyzhnUuytj pic.twitter.com/VvNBQTUYwA
— Last Week Tonight (@LastWeekTonight) November 8, 2020
James Holzhauer
It was one of the great privileges of my life to spend time with this courageous man while he fought the battle of his life. You will never be replaced in our hearts, Alex. https://t.co/LLoUASRMa9
— James Holzhauer (@James_Holzhauer) November 8, 2020
George Takei
Alex Trebek, you brought us so much knowledge, both important and fun, through the years. Your final battle with cancer was heroic, and we are heartbroken that it has taken you from us. I’ll take “Great TV Personas of Our Time” for $800. The heavens have all the answers now.
— George Takei (@GeorgeTakei) November 8, 2020
Ryan Reynolds
Alex Trebek was kind enough to film a cameo for our film Free Guy last year despite his battle. He was gracious and funny. In addition to being curious, stalwart, generous, reassuring and of course, Canadian. We love you, Alex. And always will.
— Ryan Reynolds (@VancityReynolds) November 8, 2020
Justin Trudeau
We have lost an icon. Almost every night for more than three decades, Alex Trebek entertained and educated millions around the world, instilling in so many of us a love for trivia. My deepest condolences to his family, friends, and all who are mourning this tremendous loss. pic.twitter.com/XoobAfJwBv
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) November 8, 2020
John Legend
I was obsessed with Jeopardy as a nerdy kid growing up in Ohio. I’ve loved and revered Alex Trebek since I can remember. What an iconic career. RIP Alex Trebek.
— John Legend (@johnlegend) November 8, 2020
Burt Thakur
When with proud joy we lift Life's red wine up
To drink deep of the mystic shining cup
And ecstasy through all our being leaps—
Death bows his head and weeps.I am overwhelmed with emotion right now and my heart goes out to the Trebek family. #Jeopardy #alextrebek @jeopardy pic.twitter.com/klFwYw9Cau
— Burt Thakur (@BurtThakurTX) November 8, 2020
Brad Rutter
Reading all the wonderful tributes to Alex and the thing that keeps jumping out at me for some reason is that he was on set taping the *Thursday before last*. What a badass.
— Brad Rutter (@bradrutter) November 9, 2020
Lewis Black
https://twitter.com/W_Lewis_Black/status/1325507453551738880
Adam Weinstein
https://twitter.com/AdamWeinstein/status/1325495394592296961
Steven Grade
One thing that can’t be overlooked here is that Alex kept showing up for work during the hardest year and a half of his life for *us*. He knew he was more than a game show host. I don’t know if he understood exactly why we felt so deeply for him, but he understood that we did.
— Steven Grade (@ask_Steven) November 8, 2020
