A TV Legend’s Passing: The Life and Legacy of Alex Trebek
The legendary talk show host and TV personality Alex Trebek lost his battle to pancreatic cancer on November 8th, 2020, at 80 years old. CNN reports that the adored "Jeopardy!” host passed early Sunday morning surrounded by his closest family and friends. Trebek served as the host of "Jeopardy!” for exactly 36 years, making him a familiar face on ABC and NBC for generations of Americans.
Originally from Canada, thousands of tributes flooded social media paying homage to the talk show star after news of his passing surfaced. Easily described as America's most beloved game show host, Trebek was loved by millions for his comforting presence. When Alex Trebek first began hosting "Jeopardy!” in 1984 after host Art Fleming departed, he changed the game forever. Trebek's undeniable talent and presence rewarded him with prestigious accolades such as the Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Game Show Host.
A recent article published by the Washington Post compiled a long list of each of the "Jeopardy!” champions since Trebek first began his time as the host, beginning with Elise Beraru, the first five-game champion of 1984. Each of the winning contestants shared warm words and some their fondest memories of Trebek. A quote by recent "Jeopardy!” contestant Burt Thakur, who went viral this year after emotionally explaining how Alex Trebek’s hosting helped him learn English as an immigrant, summed up the impact of Trebek's passing on millions, "From a cultural standpoint, it was more than a quiz show, more than a game show… As immigrants, we got to understand the cultural zeitgeist of the Western world. Whoever that next host will be will not only have big shoes to fill, but I hope they realize how much of an impact that show has had on so many people” (The Washington Post).
Aside from Trebek’s contribution as America’s favorite TV show host, Trebek also donated a significant portion of proceeds to charitable organizations, with the most popular being The Valley of Hope Rescue Mission, which is a homeless outreach program. Trebek and his wife Jean reportedly donated $500,000 to the community-based organization. Prior to his death, Trebek also brought national attention to pancreatic cancer, a type of cancer that is rare and typically fatal.
Although Alex Trebek’s death came as a saddening shock to millions, fans have petitioned for “Reading Rainbow” host, Levar Burton, to continue his legacy. Alex Trebek’s presence will be missed, but his passing brings with it the reminder of his countless contributions and impact on the lives of millions.
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