Renowned television personality Alex Trebek passed away on November 8, 2020, at the age of 80. Trebek was the long-time host of “Jeopardy!” However, Trebek  hosted many programs before joining “Jeopardy!” in 1984. Trebek hosted programs about music, skating, and horse racing, as well as a high school quiz show called “Reach for the Top.” In 1973, Trebek moved from Ontario, Canada to Los Angeles to host “The Wizard of Odds” on NBC. Also, Trebek hosted a slew of shows in the 1970s, ‘80s, and ‘90s, including the “$128,000 Question,” “Double Dare,” “Battlestars,” “To Tell the Truth,” and “High Rollers.” In March 2019, Trebek delivered tragic news to fans that he was diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer. Trebek assured fans that he would continue to host “Jeopardy!” while going through chemotherapy. The official “Jeopardy!” Twitter confirmed Trebek’s passing and noted that he was surrounded by family and friends before his passing. 

Fans and former “Jeopardy!” contestants alike shared their condolences regarding the passing of Alex Trebek. Former “Jeopardy!” contestant Albert Thakur credits Trebek with teaching him English and heavily impacting his life. “You know, here’s a true story, man. I grew up, I learned English because of you,” Thakur told Trebek during a post-show conversation. “And so, my grandfather, who raised me — I’m gonna get tears right now — I used to sit on his lap and watch you every day, so it’s a pretty special moment for me, man.” Following Trebek’s passing, Thakur took to Twitter to claim that he was “overwhelmed with emotion.” “Jeopardy!” has no intentions of announcing a new host, as episodes featuring Trebek will air through December 25. Trebek was last seen in the studio on October 29, and in  October 2018, Trebek renewed his contract with Sony Pictures Television to continue as host of the quiz show through 2022. Notable figures including Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Ryan Reynolds, George Takei, Jamie Lee Curtis, William Shatner, and Armie Hammer paid tribute to Trebek. Alex Trebek leaves behind his wife, Jean Currivan, and his two children, Emily and Matthew.