Iconic and perdurable trivia game show Jeopardy! is seeking a replacement for host Alex Trebek. The unique platform, blue box panels, and Trebek have created a formula that’s kept the show in syndication for over thirty-five years. Now, the game show is reportedly preparing for Trebek’s impending exit from the equation.
Created by Merv Griffin, the game show consists of presenting contestants with clues in the forms of answers, to which players must phrase their responses in the form of a question. The trivia show quickly escalated into a household staple and has become a Hollywood A-lister itself, being featured in numerous films and TV shows including, The Golden Girls, Family Guy, and SNL. Usually a serene and enlightening program, Jeopardy! has created outrageous moments in TV history with a contestant winning with just $1 and a mid-game marriage proposal. Recently, the show made headlines when Trebek shocked the nation with his grave announcement of a cancer diagnosis. The diagnosis has supposedly led to a hunt for a new host.
According to Radar Online’s, Rob Shuter - host of the Straight Shuter: Naughty But Nice podcast - Trebek is still under contract with Jeopardy! for the next three years. However, the network is wary about keeping Trebek for much longer amid his health crisis. Sources have revealed insight into the thought process of the network:
While the network has seemingly decided to replace Trebek, it’s still unclear who will fill his large shoes as the new host. Sources have said: “ Talk about his replacement has always centered around finding a female host and someone of color. But at the same time, they want someone smart and well-educated. Someone that is respected and truth-worthy.” An established female host would certainly refresh the game show and draw in a new audience. But, for now, Trebek plans on continuing to work. Amid his cancer diagnosis and talks of replacement, Trebek has remained a fervent positive force. Several announcements have been made by Trebek - via social media - thanking fans for their support.
Alex is 78-years-old, and the show was already talking about a replacement host when he retired. Now with his health scare, that process has been accelerated. Jeopardy is still a very successful show and makes millions for the network. There was no way it was just going to end after Alex retired. The idea has always been to ‘refresh’ the formula, not change it.
As they say in Hollywood, the show must go on. Iconic game shows have replaced recognized hosts in the past - from Chris Harrison replacing Regis Philbin on Who Wants to be a Millionaire, to Drew Carey taking the reins from Bob Barker on The Price is Right - and makeovers seem to be what the networks are craving. However, at this point in time, it’s difficult for audiences to picture anyone behind the Jeopardy! podium besides Trebek. Despite what the future holds, Alex Trebek of Jeopardy! will always be the beloved father-figure of America’s favorite game show.
More: Jeopardy! Host Alex Trebek Reveals Cancer Diagnosis In Video Message
Source: Radar Online
