Alex Trebek, the host of long-running US television show Jeopardy!, died at his residence on Sunday.
He was 80.
Sharing Trebek’s photo, the official Twitter page of Jeopardy! wrote, “Jeopardy! is saddened to share that Alex Trebek passed away peacefully at home early this morning, surrounded by family and friends. Thank you, Alex.”
Last year, the Canadian-American presenter had announced that he was diagnosed with advanced pancreatic cancer.
Just like the 50,000 people in America each year, he was diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer, Trebek had said in his statement. Stating that he is going to fight the disease, Trebek had said: “I plan to beat the low survival rates statistics for this disease. Truth told, I have to because under the terms of my contract, I have to host Jeopardy! for three more years.”
Despite his diagnosis, Trebek continued working for the television show and kept his fans updated about his health. In a statement issued by Jeopardy! in July, Trebek said that he was confident of his current treatment plan. However, in September, he announced that after he moved from chemotherapy to immunotherapy, his health had worsened.
Having presented more than 8,200 episodes of Jeopardy!, Trebek set a Guinness World Record in 2014 for the ‘most game show episodes hosted by the same presenter’. Known for his wit and charisma, Trebek hosted the show for three decades.
Trebek’s final episode of Jeopardy! will be aired on Christmas. He is survived by his second wife Jean, and children Matthew, Emily, and Nicky.
Issuing a statement on Trebek’s death, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau wrote, “For many of us, Alex Trebek was a daily part of our lives. As the host of Jeopardy! for almost four decades, he hosted more episodes of a single television game show than anyone else in history. We looked forward to his quick wit and wry jokes – and the questions about Canada he’d sneak into the show.”
We have lost an icon. Almost every night for more than three decades, Alex Trebek entertained and educated millions around the world, instilling in so many of us a love for trivia. My deepest condolences to his family, friends, and all who are mourning this tremendous loss.
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) November 8, 2020
Former Jeopardy! contestant Buzzy Cohen was among the first to pay tributes to Trebek.
“Absolutely heartbreaking to lose someone who meant so much to so many. Even if this show hadn’t changed my life in so many ways, this loss would be immeasurable,” he wrote.
Last year, Trebek played a cameo role in actor Ryan Reynold’s Free Guy despite his heath conditions. Reynolds tweeted, “Alex Trebek was kind enough to film a cameo for our film Free Guy last year despite his battle. He was gracious and funny. In addition to being curious, stalwart, generous, reassuring and of course, Canadian. We love you, Alex. And always will.”
Many people took to Twitter to mourn Trebek’s death.
My heart is so sad over the passing of the classiest game show host of all time!!! His style was real to me …… condolences to his entire family and fans #AlexTrebek
— Steve Harvey (@IAmSteveHarvey) November 8, 2020
Television has lost a true treasure and icon. Alex was in a league of his own. Class act, grace and courage just scratch the surface. Always warm, friendly and unassuming. Robin & I send our heartfelt condolences to the entire Trebek family. You are all in our prayers. https://t.co/OQgadVrVGe
— Dr. Phil (@DrPhil) November 8, 2020
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
RIP Alex Trebek. A true, true gentleman and courageous hero. May flights of angels sing thee to thy rest 💛 pic.twitter.com/autbyxnlcs
— Viola Davis (@violadavis) November 8, 2020
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The best in the business. You will be missed, my friend 🙏🏻 Rest In Peace #AlexTrebek… pic.twitter.com/2lWZCFeYwE
— jimmy fallon (@jimmyfallon) November 8, 2020