Alex Trebek, the lauded and longtime host of Jeopardy! passed away at the age of 80, after battling pancreatic cancer. The official Jeopardy! Twitter account confirmed the sad news on the morning of Sunday, November 8, writing: “‘Jeopardy!’ is saddened to share that Alex Trebek passed away peacefully at home early this morning, surrounded by family and friends. Thank you, Alex.”
Jeopardy! is saddened to share that Alex Trebek passed away peacefully at home early this morning, surrounded by family and friends. Thank you, Alex. pic.twitter.com/Yk2a90CHIM
— Jeopardy! (@Jeopardy) November 8, 2020
Alex revealed his Stage Four pancreatic cancer diagnosis in March of 2019 . “I have lived a good life, a full life and I’m nearing the end of that life,” he told USA Today in October.
The American-Canadian television personality cemented his status as a national icon early on. Since 1984, the show’s debut in syndication and the beginning of his run, Alex racked up five Daytime Emmy Awards for outstanding game show host. In 2011, Trebek received a Peabody Award for “encouraging, celebrating and rewarding knowledge,” making Jeopardy! the only post-1960 game show to be so honored.
Alex is survived by his second wife, Jean, and their two children, Emily and Matthew. Our thoughts go out to them at this time.
Read some of the most lovely and moving celebrity tributes below:
Ellen DeGeneres
Alex Trebek hosted Jeopardy for 36 years. What an incredible career and remarkable life. I’m sending love to his family and fans.
— Ellen DeGeneres (@TheEllenShow) November 8, 2020
Ryan Seacrest
Alex Trebek was like a family member who I watched every night. I remember going to the set to watch him tape a show before I started my TV career. He was a big influence and one of a kind. Rest In Peace, Alex. https://t.co/B9wq95uRg4
— Ryan Seacrest (@RyanSeacrest) 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
Dr. Oz
I have spent much of my life admiring Alex Trebek, but grew to adore his grace as he battled pancreatic cancer. Both our shows are produced by SONY so I had a chance to see him on the lot. https://t.co/75lIyDVvYX
— Dr. Mehmet Oz (@DrOz) November 8, 2020