Who is… Alex Trebek: CCHS mourns the loss of the late “Jeopardy!” host

BY KAMDYN ROHER

The popular general knowledge and trivia game show “Jeopardy!” has been an American classic for almost 37 years, entertaining millions every week. Beloved by fans, Alex Trebek has been the host ever since the show’s revival debut in 1987. 

On November 8, 2020 the show’s Twitter account announced Trebek’s death at 80 years old,  after battling pancreatic cancer. Trebek announced he had stage four cancer in March 2019. 

“‘Jeopardy!’ is saddened to share that Alex Trebek passed away peacefully at home early this morning, surrounded by family and friends,” the post read. “Thank you, Alex.”

“Thank you, Alex.”

“Jeopardy!” Twitter post

Growing up in Sudbury, Canada, Trebek studied philosophy at the University of Ottawa. However, after his graduation Trebek decided to become a journalist, quickly acquiring a job as a fill-in reporter and newscaster for the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC TV). 

He instantaneously became known for his “cool on-screen demeanor” and he decided to pursue a career of hosting game shows. After hosting a few smaller shows, Trebek landed his most well-known job of hosting “Jeopardy!” in 1987. 

Enamored by his quick wit and entertaining, yet calm mannerisms, Trebek impacted the lives of many of his viewers, inspiring many throughout their lives. 

“The one thing I can really say for me watching and growing up with Trebek hosting ‘Jeopardy!’ is that the show made me feel like it was okay to be smart,” science teacher Jason Scarlatelli said. “Too often, some people stigmatize intelligence with words like ‘nerd’ or ‘geek,’ but ‘Jeopardy!’ has always been a show that celebrates intelligence and I love that about it.”

“The one thing I can really say for me watching and growing up with Trebek hosting ‘Jeopardy!’ is that the show made me feel like it was okay to be smart.”

Science teacher Jason Scarlatelli

With over 13.3 million viewers tuning in daily, “Jeopardy!” has gained quite the reputation and boasts many achievements, including 39 Emmy Awards, a Peabody Award and a Writers Guild of America Award. 

Trebek himself won six Emmy Awards, the 2011 National Academy of Television Arts and Science (NATAS) Lifetime Achievement Award and stars on both the Hollywood and Ontario Walk of Fame. He additionally was awarded a Guiness World of Records Achievement in 2014 for most game show episodes hosted by the same presenter.

“Of course, Alex Trebek will be missed,” guidance counselor Kimberly Lilly said. “His commitment to the pursuit of knowledge was remarkable.”

“His commitment to the pursuit of knowledge was remarkable.”

Guidance counselor Kimberly Lilly

Trebek was married to Jean Currivan Trebek and shared two children, Emily and Matthew, with her. As expected, the family is in mourning and has released statements projecting their gratitude to the “Jeopardy!” community during their time of sadness. 

The fate of the show is still unknown after Trebek’s death, with no new host being identified. 

With a heavy heart, CCHS honors the legendary Trebek who inspired and impacted many, his legacy living on through his iconic show forevermore.  

Illustration by Kamdyn Roher