Days after his death following a battle with pancreatic cancer, “Jeopardy!” paid tribute to late host Alex Trebek in a touching opening video.
Ahead of the debut of late “Jeopardy!” host Alex Trebek’s last episodes on the show, executive producer Mike Richards paid his respects.
The executive producer opened the show with an emotional acknowledgment of Trebek’s loss and its impact on the show.
Richards went on to state how much Trebek loved the show and how devoted he was, to hosting each episode. Even in his last days, the late television personality strived to film the final episodes despite his condition.
Trebek was an example of selfless dedication to a cause, and the “Jeopardy!” team appreciated his efforts. Richards acknowledged his exemplary attributes in the heartfelt tributes, saying:
“He will forever be an inspiration for his constant desire to learn, his kindness, and for his love of his family.”
Richards concluded the touching speech with a note of thanks to the legend on behalf of everyone at “Jeopardy!”
As a special honor to the legend, the show will air Trebek’s last 35 episodes concurrently. The episodes would run through Christmas day, because “that was what he wanted.”
Trebek went public with his pancreatic cancer diagnosis in September last year
Alex Trebek’s death from pancreatic cancer on Sunday, November 8, left fans of the game show mourning. Many took to various social media platforms to mourn the devastating loss.
Celebrities and former contestants of the game show joined in mourning the death of the icon. “Jeopardy!” contestant Ken Jennings expressed his grief on social media, referring to him as a “lovely and deeply decent man.”
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also paid tribute to the late Canadian native, who served as a host on “Jeopardy” from 1984 until his death from cancer.
Fans may recall that Trebek went public with his pancreatic cancer diagnosis in September last year. The revelation came as a shock to many, who’d made a place for the star in their hearts through his nearly four-decade stint on the game show.
He followed up his announcement with detailed updates on his health status and treatment progress via videos shared on the show’s social media accounts.
Fans extended prayers and heartfelt wishes to the star, hoping for his swift recovery. However, those hopes became crushed in July, when Trebek disclosed his intention to abandon treatment altogether after exhausting several treatment options to no avail.
His death came less than four months later, taking along decades of experience, talent, hope, and happiness. Trebek’s impact will forever be missed!