As news of the passing of cherished “Jeopardy!” game show host Alex Trebek continues to ruffle through the entertainment world and trivia fraternity alike, many are pondering: After nearly four decades at the wheel, who could replace Alex Trebek?
Who will replace Alex Trebek?
For one out of two of the appellant to a Morning poll in 2019, that answer is no one on this earth. Just a few months after Trebek revealed his Stage 4 pancreatic cancer diagnosis, half of those contemplated last July said they couldn’t picture watching “Jeopardy!” without him. Sources say that Sony Pictures Television, the studio behind “Jeopardy!”, had had long-term internal arguments about inheritance long before Trebek’s diagnosis as the longtime host was near retirement age.
But whenever the show is ready to get back into production, one probable winner has long appeared quite a crystal clear. The quick-witted and easygoing Ken Jennings, who was earlier this year enthroned the champion of the “Jeopardy! Greatest of All Time” tournament in a contest between him, James Holzhauer and Brad Rutter, is a fan favourite for the position. He was first hurled into the spotlight in the mid-cypher with a renowned 74-game win streak and is second to Trebek when it comes to being synonymous with the show.
Jennings, Holzhauer and Rutter
Of course, Jennings, Rutter and Holzhauer already have previous projects — all three have been tapped to co-host in ABC trivia show “The Chase,” which will be hosted by Sara Haines.
Many more famous names are also being anticipated as possible new hosts, together with CNN anchor Anderson Cooper. According to sources, Cooper is not currently chasing the position, although the prospect has come up for discussion in the past. Another name in the buzz is George Stephanopoulos, though it is unclear that any talks with the ABC News anchor have taken place.
Sony Pictures has no doubt cast a broad net, though a source would only say that the show has not announced a new host at this time.
